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IEMA-OHS and National Weather
Service recognize Winter Weather Preparedness Week
[November 11, 2025]
SPRINGFIELD– As winter weather
approaches, Illinois residents are reminded to prepare for the
possibility of snow, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures. This
week marks National Winter Weather Preparedness Week, a timely
opportunity for individuals, families, and communities to plan ahead
for the challenges the season can bring.
The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland
Security (IEMA-OHS) is partnering with the National Weather Service
(NWS) to urge everyone to take simple, proactive steps now to stay
safe and reduce the risks posed by severe winter weather.
“Illinois weather can shift at any moment and the best time to
prepare for unpredictable weather is before it begins,” said
IEMA-OHS Acting Director Theodore “Ted” Berger. “Simple actions such
as winterizing your home, preparing an emergency kit, and insulating
exposed pipes can make all the difference.”
NWS Meteorologist Ed Shimon added, “Cultivating a Weather Ready
Nation is a goal of the NWS. Winter weather impacts can catch us off
guard and create potentially fatal consequences. Illinois averages
approximately 27 fatalities per year and thousands of injuries due
to winter driving accidents. It is imperative for everyone to take
seriously their preparations and planning for winter weather.
Whether it be snow and ice on the roads, zero visibility in
snowstorms or bitterly cold temperatures, being weather aware and
‘Weather Ready’ can save your life.”
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Throughout the
week, IEMA-OHS and the NWS will highlight key winter weather
topics:
Monday: Snow Impacts – First snow, snow squalls, and types of
winter precipitation
Tuesday: Icy Road Impacts – Black ice, freezing rain, and bridge
safety
Wednesday: Cold Weather Safety – Wind chill, hypothermia,
dressing for the cold, and pet safety
Thursday: Home Safety and Preparedness – Winterizing your home,
power outages, and snow removal
Friday: Winter Headlines – Understanding blizzards and forecast
challenges
For more information on winter weather risks and how to prepare
in Illinois,
click here.
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