By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org
Random white out conditions and the coldest day since 1994 have created some icy road conditions for most of West Michigan, which is why area police are encouraging residents to stay home.
While three of the area highways, I-96, US 131, and M-6, were shut down at various times yesterday, the Jan. 9, 2015 150-plus car pile up on I-94 remains one of the largest in the state’s history. That accident took place between Battle Creek and Galesburg. There were explosions as fireworks carried on trucks ignited and fires burned, however; only one person was killed in the 2015 accident.
Area police are not interested in seeing a repeat of the I-94 accident and have encouraged residents to not go out if it is not necessary. In fact, schools to business, including Woodland Mall, were closed Wednesday due to the weather conditions, which according to the National Weather Service will continue through Thursday.
The National Weather Service website states we should expect snow showers with rapid changes to visibility (near zero at times), intense bursts of snow, gusty winds, and snow and ice-covered roads. Temperatures will be dangerously cold, with wind chills tonight through Thursday morning between -20 and -40 below. These low temperatures can cause frostbite in under 10 minutes and hypothermia.
Last night I-96, US 131, and M-6 were closed due to accidents. All had accidents involving more than 20 cars with Kent County Sheriff officers stating drivers were not aware of accidents on the expressways and when they came upon them, were not able to stop.
The Kent County Sheriff’s Department has told drivers if they are out, to slow down, keep a space between you and the car in front of you, and be prepared for whiteout conditions.
The National Weather Service advises that in whiteout conditions:
- Drivers drive with low beam or fog lights on to avoid reflection from snow and ice
- If you have to pull over, try to find an exit or a parking lot, do not stop in a traffic lane or along the shoulder
- Be patient and avoid changing lanes too often
- Slow down
- Keep your windows and mirrors clear to maximize visibility.
It is advised that residents make sure to check business and doctor offices to confirm that they are open before heading out on the roads. Some schools, such as Byron Center and Kentwood Public Schools, already have announced they will be closed on Thursday, Jan. 31. Grand Rapids Public Schools will be closed Thursday, Jan. 31, and Friday, Feb. 1.
Lastly, be prepared for an emergency on the road. Take extra blankets or a sleeping bag, food, water, a flashlight, make sure your phone is fully charged, and that your gas tank is full. Condensation can form in an empty gas tank and in the current cold temperatures that can freeze putting ice in your fuel lines and cause no-start conditions.
Also, here are some snowy street tips from the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood.
