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Cook County Urges Residents to Stay Safe During Winter Storm

News Date: 
Saturday, Jan 11, 2020 - 12:00
Cook County Urges Residents to Stay Safe During Winter Storm
 
This weekend’s weather system has the potential to bring significant rainfall, ice, freezing rain, snow, flooding, high winds and high waves on the Lake Michigan shoreline.
 
Flooding is expected along the lakefront, and heavy precipitation may cause flooding of area rivers and waterways. Main stem river, tributary, and small stream flooding may occur, with flash flooding possible. Flooding is also possible on roads and in viaducts.
 
The Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security offers the following tips for residents:
 
  • Use extra caution when driving, walking or cycling as roads may be covered in ice and slippery.
  • Avoid the Lake Michigan shoreline as high winds my bring significant waves, storm surges and possible flooding.
  • Use caution around area rivers and waterways as there is a potential for significant rain and possible flooding.
  • If you see standing water in a roadway or viaduct, turn around – don’t drown.Be especially cautious driving at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
  • Bring loose items – like patio furniture, potted plants and toys – indoors.
  • If items are too large to bring indoors, make sure to anchor them so that they do not pose a hazard to people or property during strong winds.
  • When you are outdoors, watch for flying debris. Tree limbs can break, and street signs can come loose.
  • If you see a downed power line:
    • Call police and your local utility company’s emergency line immediately:
    • If a power line falls on your vehicle, stay inside your vehicle and do not touch any part of the metal frame.
    • Do not touch anything that the power line is coming into contact with including tree branches and vehicles.
  • Call 9-1-1 in the event of an emergency.