Pritzker Issues Disaster Declaration

As Illinois prepares for the winter storm, Governor J.B. Pritzker issued a statewide declaration of disaster on Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2022.

The storm, which has been named Winter Storm Landon, will likely result in heavy snow and ice. Some parts of central Illinois are predicted to get up to 15 inches of snow over the next few days.

As part of his disaster declaration, Pritzker deployed 1,800 trucks to treat the roads throughout the state.There are also 130 Illinois National Guard members on standby to help stranded drivers.

“I want to assure county and local officials and everyone in the path of the storm that my administration will provide resources every step of the way,” Pritzker said during a press conference on Tuesday afternoon. “On the ground, all state assets stand ready to assist.”

Meteorologists predict that rain will begin late Tuesday afternoon and then turn into sleet and snow through Tuesday night. They warn that Wednesday morning could see a snowfall rate of one inch per hour. Decatur will likely experience heavy snowfall throughout Wednesday.

“I encourage everyone to do what you can to stay safe: listen to local authorities to stay up to date with the latest conditions in your community and make sure your household has essentials,” Pritzker said.

In anticipation of the storm, Millikin has suspended campus operations for Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2022. Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to stay home and stay safe.