Winter storm dumps mix of ice and snow

A major winter storm barreled through our entire area last week bringing treacherous conditions and dangerous travel.

About six to eight inches of snow hit the Staunton area. Ice, snow, wind and bitter cold began early last Wednesday morning and continued throughout the day Wednesday and Thursday and had many people seeking the warmth and safety of their homes for a few days.

The Illinois Department of Transportation along with county, township and city crews were out in force treating then clearing the roadways in an effort to alleviate the extremely dangerous travel conditions.

The weather event started out with rain on Tuesday night that changed to a wintry mix of rain, sleet and freezing rain overnight. It was that layer of ice that made travel so treacherous. Snowfall started Wednesday morning and continued throughout the day both Wednesday and Thursday. High winds with gusts up to 30 m.p.h. led to blowing and drifting snow, creating hazardous conditions for anyone who had to be outside.

morning and near zero on Saturday morning. Residents were urged to postpone all unnecessary travel and simply stay home, and many people took that advice to heart. Schools were closed on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. At Staunton, emergency days were used on Wednesday and Thursday, and remote learning was in effect for Friday. Some school events were cancelled, and many businesses in the area were closed on Thursday and some remained closed on Friday.

People who had to travel found it was slow-going and some ended up in drifted snow, stranded in ditches, or involved in crashes. Emergency services were in high demand.

Snow totals were forecast between 6 and 12 inches, with the weather forecasters being right on target this time. Many places in the St. Louis area received 12 inches or more.