State Police update for January 8, 2014

Ashkum, IL- Illinois State Police District 21 covering Kankakee, Iroquois and Ford Counties are reminding drivers to take precautions as they travel.

The Illinois State Police are advising motorist to be cautious while traveling today. Interstate 57 is down to one lane in some areas throughout Kankakee, Iroquois and Ford Counties due to snow and ice. Several secondary roads are still snow covered and icy.

Motorist are advised to continue to be cautious while driving, tow trucks will be out removing the remaining 19 stranded vehicles and semis on Interstate 57 and secondary roads. Interstate 57 southbound in the Chebanse area will be down to one lane and possibly totally shut down starting at 9:00 a.m., to allow tow trucks to remove a bus and semi in the median.

All stranded motorist who were taken to the warming centers in the Paxton and Gilman area were reunited with their vehicles yesterday. The warming centers in the Paxton and Gilman area are now closed.

The Illinois State Police are asking drivers to monitor changing weather conditions, limit their travels, and be prepared to allow plenty of time to reach your destination. Drivers are also encouraged to put extra water, food, and warm clothing their vehicle. Please contact your nearest police department if you vehicle becomes disabled or involved in a crash.