Brought to you by WBIW News and Network Indiana
Last updated on Monday, March 2, 2015
(INDIANAPOLIS) - There is a potential for sleet and freezing rain in much of Indiana tonight, with snow possible for the northern portion of the state.
In southern Indiana, warmer weather has promoted snowmelt, which could lead to slick surfaces as the temperature drops below freezing overnight.
State agencies advise Hoosiers to prepare now for potentially deteriorating conditions, which could extend into Tuesday's commute.
Travel
Hoosiers should carefully consider if travel is necessary, especially if roads become hazardous. If travel is necessary, the Indiana State Police, Indiana Department of Transportation and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security encourage motorists to use a variety of resources to make an informed decision.
One source is the Indiana County Travel Advisory Map. It's updated with travel information determined by county emergency management agencies and describes the conditions for a travel warning, watch, advisory and caution.
The map is available online at http://www.in.gov/dhs/traveladvisory/ or on a mobile device by downloading the Indiana Travel Advisory app for iPhone (https://appsto.re/us/QHVw4.i) in the App Store, and Android (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=gov.in.traveladvisory) in the Google Play Store.
Keep an eye on road conditions and closures across the state using the Indiana Department of Transportation's TrafficWise service at trafficwise.in.gov or by calling 1-800-261-ROAD (7623.)
In addition to these tools, stay aware of changing travel conditions by monitoring the local news, travel, weather and trusted social media sites and apps.
Citizens that must travel should let someone know the planned route, expected time of arrival and contact information. Charge cell phones before leaving. Pack essential items such as high protein snacks, water, first aid kit, flashlight, warm blankets, extra prescription medications and important documents or information that might be needed during an emergency.
Develop a Plan
Winter weather, especially ice, can cause power outages. Hoosiers should be prepared to take action should the power go out. Citizens should look up their electric utility's outage reporting phone number and add it to their cell phone contact list.
Other ways to get ready include:
- Charge cell phones, laptops and any other battery-operated accessories to ensure maximum battery life when without power.
- Know where to go should the power go out. Identify a friend or family member's house, or a nearby shelter or warming station that can be used. If none of these are available, identify the most insulated and interior room available and gather extra clothing, warm blankets and sleeping bags to help stay warm.
- Prepare an emergency kit, including food and water for three days (includes three gallons of water per person, per day), a battery operated or hand crank all hazards radio, a flashlight and extra batteries and any other special items (baby formula, insulin, medications).
Take the time to check with neighbors and see if there's anything they can do before, during or after weather events.
For more winter weather preparedness information, visit www.GetPrepared.in.gov.
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