The Midwest is in a state of emergency as a dangerous winter storm hits Nebraska, Iowa, and Illinois, leaving deadly conditions in its wake. Roads are nearly impassable, whiteout conditions are causing crashes by the minute, and officials are advising residents to stay indoors at all costs.
Several accidents in Nebraska have resulted in fatalities, while over 400 motorists in Iowa have been stranded in ditches or involved in crashes. If you’re thinking about going out today, DON’T! This storm is not to be taken lightly, and here is why.
DEADLY IMPACT: CRASHES, STRANDED DRIVERS & EMERGENCY RESCUES
The storm hit overnight, quickly blanketing highways and transforming roads into sheets of ice. In Nebraska, a horrific accident on I-80 near Grand Island killed two people after an SUV lost control and collided with a semi truck. The Nebraska State Patrol has responded to more than 300 emergency calls, and the number is increasing by the hour.
Iowa has also taken a hard hit. The Iowa State Patrol reports at least 106 crashes, and troopers are working nonstop to assist hundreds of stranded drivers. Visibility has dropped to almost zero in some areas, making travel extremely dangerous, if not impossible.
Meanwhile, Illinois residents are dealing with wet, heavy snow. Chicago is under a Winter Weather Advisory, with snow quickly accumulating and slippery sidewalks making commutes a nightmare.
CURRENT CONDITIONS & SNOWFALL TOTALS
Nebraska – Brutal Whiteout Conditions
- Current Temperature: 31°F (0°C)
- Snow Accumulation: 2-4 inches, blowing snow reducing visibility
- Hazard: Ice-covered roads, multiple crashes reported
Iowa – Blizzard-Like Conditions Make Travel Treacherous
- Current Temperature: 33°F (1°C)
- Snowfall: Another 0.5-1 inch expected throughout the day
- Hazard: Near-zero visibility, hundreds of stranded drivers
Illinois – Slick, Snow-Covered Roads & Slow Commutes
- Current Temperature: 35°F (2°C)
- Snowfall: 1-2 inches, with additional accumulation expected
- Hazard: Slush-covered highways, dangerous morning commutes
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO RIGHT NOW!
- STAY OFF THE ROADS! If you don’t absolutely have to drive, DON’T. Visibility is terrible, roads are icy, and first responders are overwhelmed with emergency calls.
- CHECK YOUR POWER SUPPLIES! High winds could bring power outages. Make sure you have flashlights, charged devices, and emergency supplies ready.
- WATCH OUT FOR ICE! Even when the snow stops, black ice will remain a serious threat. Take slow, careful steps if you must walk outside.
- STAY UPDATED! Conditions are changing by the hour. Check weather alerts and local emergency updates before making any decisions.
THIS STORM ISN’T OVER YET!
This dangerous winter blast is far from over, and conditions will be hazardous throughout the day. Nebraska, Iowa, and Illinois are in the grip of a deadly snowstorm, and travel is not advised.
Emergency crews are already overburdened; don’t put yourself or them in danger. Stay safe and warm, and wait until the storm passes before venturing out.
