Winter storms are dangerous. You can minimize the impact of severe winter weather by being prepared. Check the latest weather forecast before traveling. The National Weather Service issues outlooks, watches, warnings, and advisories for hazardous winter weather.

The hazardous weather outlook highlights potentially dangerous winter storms, high winds, and extreme cold, up to seven days in advance.

A winter storm watch means severe winter weather is possible in the next day or two. Check supplies of food and fuel.

A winter storm warning means severe winter weather conditions are imminent, occurring, or highly likely to begin in the next 12 hours. Avoid travel and stay indoors.

A winter weather advisory means weather that causes significant inconvenience, especially to motorists, is imminent, occurring, or highly likely to begin in the next 12 hours. Use caution.

The best way to get the latest winter weather information direct from the National Weather Service is by listening to NOAA Weather Radio – All Hazards. Radios are available at many electronics and department stores, through catalogs, and through the internet. They cost around $30 to $80. Weather radio broadcasts are also available at many Illinois interstate highway rest areas.