Weather Update - January 7, 2010

As expected, three to five inches of snow fell overnight and now the temperature is falling. The temperature as of 7 a.m. was 17 degrees and is expected to fall to 9 degrees by the end of the day. The arctic blast will continue to blow cold weather our way, with tomorrow’s low predicted to be just above zero degrees.

The weather has caused all area schools – from Millstadt to Prairie du Rocher - to be closed for the day.

There were no major accidents overnight, with very accidents reported throughout Monroe County. There was one report this morning of a vehicle sliding into a sink hole near New Hanover.

“We had a very quiet night,” reported Steve Wheat of Wheat’s Towing.

The Illinois State Police is reporting there have been 56 traffic crashes in the Metro-East. – mainly in St. Clair and Madison Counties. There were no serious injuries in those accidents

“The roads appear clear, but are snow packed in almost the entire metro east area,” said ISP Master Trooper Ralph Timmons. “Fortunately, traffic has been light as many people have stayed home, but as soon as people hear it's getting better, they come out and make it worse.”

According to state troopers out on the highways, I-64 is snow packed from I-255 to the Green Mount exit. Also, winds are really gusting westbound at 55/70 at Route 157 causing treacherous driving conditions.

Timmons reminded drivers that four wheel vehicles may get started faster, but they don't stop any faster. He added, “Please stay home for at least a few hours to give the road crews a chance.”