The Springfield area could see a bit more snowfall Thursday before the storm system moves out of the region. The capital city reported 7.9 inches before the snow tapered off Wednesday afternoon.
A winter storm warning is in effect for central Illinois until 6 p.m. Thursday.
The snow created slick conditions on roads, leading to numerous accidents. A portion of I-55 in Logan County was closed and traffic re-routed after an accident involving a semi truck. 9.5 inches of snow was reported in Lincoln, 11.5 inches in Quincy and 7.5 inches in Jacksonville.
Winds gusting to 30 miles per hour also reduced visibility. The winds will continue into Thursday with blowing snow.
With wind chills near zero, many activities have been canceled for Thursday.
Springfield public schools are closed. Most other schools in the region have canceled classes or will have remote learning.
The University of Illinois Springfield has canceled on-ground classes Thursday. Remote or online classes may be held. The COVID-19 Shield testing site at UIS will also be closed.
Lincoln Land Community College will be closed on all campuses.
The Secretary of State has shut down the offices in Springfield and many driver's services facilities will also be closed Thursday.
The City of Springfield’s Office of Public Works announced that a Snow Emergency will be in effect on designated snow routes until 9:00 p.m. Friday, February 4.
The public is required to remove their parked vehicles from the marked snow emergency routes. To access the Snow Emergency Route Map along with the city’s Snow & Ice Removal Policy, visit www.springfield.il.us/snow.
Drivers are reminded to watch for snow removal crews and allow them room to do their work. Persons clearing private parking lots and sidewalks are reminded not to plow the snow into the streets. It is a violation of city ordinance and doing so makes unsafe driving conditions. During a severe winter storm, residents can call the Office of Public Works to report any problems or concerns at 217.789.2246.
Sangamon County has issued a Level 2 Emergency for county roads.
LEVEL 2: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow and may be icy. There are areas where the roadways may be partially closed by the elements. Travel on County Highways is discouraged. No one should be out during these conditions unless it is absolutely necessary to travel. Emergency personnel may not be able to respond in a timely manner if you are stranded.
The Illinois Department of Transportation has a road conditions map available. Check it before you begin to travel.
