Michigan State Police Caution Drivers

As a Winter storm impacts Kalamazoo, Michigan State Police urge caution and warn of hazardous travel conditions.

As the National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Kalamazoo, Michigan State Police (MSP) are also urging drivers to slow down and use caution.

The National Weather Service is forecasting freezing rain with a quarter- to half-inch of ice accumulation. Western Michigan is expected to experience the worst conditions with 50 mph winds and the highest ice accumulation totals. These conditions are likely to cause widespread power outages and dangerous traveling conditions.

Freezing rain has the ability to be very destructive, causing both long-term power outages and hazardous travel conditions. I strongly recommend anyone who may be affected by this storm to ensure they have enough supplies to last three days per person. Travel may not be possible right away.

-Capt. Chris A. Kelenske, Deputy State Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (EMHSD) and commander of the MSP/EMHSD.

Anyone in the path of this weather system is strongly encouraged to make alternative plans in case weather conditions disrupt daily routines. Preparations include charging cell phones and other devices in case power is interrupted, evaluating whether driving is necessary, stocking up on gas for generators and vehicles, and gathering essential supplies for your car and home in case they are needed.

Travelers are encouraged to go to www.michigan.gov/roadconditions and www.michigan.gov/drive to check road conditions before traveling.  Weather and road conditions are also available by calling the MSP Travel Advisory Hotline at 1-800-381-8477.

If you must travel, keep an emergency preparedness kit in your vehicle (e.g., a hand-crank flashlight and radio, cell phone charger, windshield scraper, emergency contact list, blanket, “Help” signs, jumper cables, tow strap, fire extinguisher, cat litter or sand for better tire traction, shovels, flares, first aid kit, bottled water and non-perishable, high-energy foods).

If you are stranded in a winter storm, do not leave your vehicle. Stay with the vehicle and wait for help.