SPRINGFIELD, ILL (WICS/WRSP) — Some parts of Central Illinois saw between eight to ten inches of snow Sunday and while many enjoyed that snow, it made for some dangerous driving conditions.
Driving was one of the biggest challenges residents faced over the weekend leading to many crashes and car troubles.
Newschannel 20 looked into just how much assistance was needed over one single day.
“I feel like the last time we got this amount of snow was like, maybe 2010, it seems like it’s been a really long time,” said Tessa Statzer, a Springfield resident.
Residents still in shock over just how much snowfall Central Illinois received, however the high amount of snow led to many challenges on the roads especially on Sunday.
“We did go out in it and there was like barely anyone on the road, and you couldn’t even see the road. Visibility was very hard,” said Springfield resident Courtney Bennett.
According to the Illinois State Police between the hours of 6 a.m. on January 5th to 6 a.m. on January 6th, there were 70 property damage crashes and 12 personal injury crashes.
Troopers also assisted 330 motorists.
The increase in assistance was similar in Springfield.
According to the Springfield Police Department between midnight on January 5th and 11 a.m. January 6th, there were 3 property damage accidents, 1 unknown injury accident, 1 hit and run accident and 57 motorist assists.
IDOT had about 1,000 plow trucks active statewide, and Public Works has about 26 trucks with 7 pieces of heavy machinery to remove snow from the roads.
Bennett said her husband stayed out all night plowing the roads.
“He had to leave at 10pm last night to start plowing the schools and getting that all prepared so it’s safe for everyone, and he’s still there,” she said.
As crews continued to work, residents said there were slight improvements on Monday.
“Main roads today are like, not a problem at all, but the side streets…you see the cars spinning their tires and everything,” said Springfield resident Matt Scherer.
If you need to travel in these conditions, residents have some advice.
“Every year you should always check your spare tire, because it could be flat. If you happen to get a flat in this that would be horrible,” Scherer said.
“Be cautious and careful when you think you can stop just be slow and cautious and very careful and just take your time,” Bennett said.
IDOT added three snow plows were struck by drivers over the weekend and to remember to give plows room when sharing the roadways.
We will continue to bring you updates on the weather conditions both on air and online.
