SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (Chambana Today) — State transportation and law enforcement officials are warning Illinois residents to avoid unnecessary travel as a powerful winter storm brings heavy snow, bitter cold, and dangerously low wind chills across much of the state this weekend and into next week.

The Illinois Department of Transportation and Illinois State Police say the combination of snowfall, subzero temperatures, and strong winds will make road conditions hazardous and, at times, life-threatening, particularly overnight and in areas hardest hit by the storm.

“Our snow and ice teams will be prepared and out in force, but with the extreme weather forecasted, any kind of travel will put you and others at risk,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi. “Staying home during severe weather is always the safest option.”

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for southern Illinois and an extreme cold warning for most of the state. Areas south of Effingham, including parts of southern Illinois and the Metro East, could see 8 to 12 inches of snow. Central Illinois may receive up to 8 inches, while parts of Kankakee, Peoria, and Macomb could see as much as 4 inches. Snowfall totals of 1 to 4 inches are expected in the Chicago area, with lesser amounts farther north.

Winds gusting up to 25 miles per hour are expected to cause blowing and drifting snow, significantly reducing visibility. Temperatures are forecast to remain below zero across much of Illinois, with wind chills ranging from minus 5 to as low as minus 40 degrees.

IDOT crews have been pretreating roads and bridges and preparing plows and salt trucks ahead of the storm. However, officials warn that extreme cold will greatly reduce the effectiveness of salt and other treatment materials, leaving roads slick even after plowing. Blowing snow could also quickly cover treated roadways.

“The bitter cold and large snow amounts forecasted this weekend can lead to extremely dangerous driving conditions,” said Illinois State Police Director Brendan F. Kelly. “If you don’t have to drive, don’t. If you must travel, slow down, allow extra time, and be prepared for emergencies.”

Statewide, IDOT has nearly 1,900 trucks and pieces of equipment ready to respond across more than 45,000 lane miles. Drivers are urged not to crowd snowplows and to give crews ample space, noting that conditions in front of plows are often worse than behind them.

Officials advise anyone who must travel to reduce speed, increase following distance, and use extra caution on bridges, ramps, intersections, and shaded areas prone to icing. Drivers are also reminded to obey the Move Over law, wear seat belts, avoid distractions, and remain inside their vehicles if involved in a crash during severe weather.

Current road conditions are available around the clock at GettingAroundIllinois.com, and residents are encouraged to monitor forecasts and updates as the storm continues.