While the Chicago area saw summer-like conditions in recent weeks, weather of a much different sort is expected Tuesday.
The region is expected to see its first measurable snowfall, with widespread snow showers beginning at around 5 a.m. With a winter weather advisory set to go into effect, many people could experience traffic delays and a slushy commute to work or school.
Chicago's Office of Emergency Management and Communications suggests people allow more time for driving, give extra space between vehicles and make room for emergency responders.
OEMC works in conjunction with Chicago's Department of Streets and Sanitation, which has 425,000 tons of salt and a fleet of more than 200 trucks ready to be deployed across the city.
"We just ask people to be conscious that it is the first snow," said Cole Stallard, commissioner of the Department of Streets and Sanitation. "It is in the morning rush hour. Talk to those young drivers in the house that this may be their first time heading off to school driving."
In case you were to get stuck in the snowy weather, AAA Motor Club's spokeswoman suggest adding an emergency kit in your car. The kit should include items such as your cell phone, cell phone charger, extra bottles of water, snacks, blankets, mittens and hats, according to spokeswoman Molly Hart. She also advises that you keep a flashlight and abrasive material in case you need to pull over to the side of the road.
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