Discusses Illinois' Disaster Response After Year of Extreme Weather

WASHINGTON - Governor Pat Quinn today delivered the keynote address at the National Journal's Natural Disaster Forum in Washington, D.C., where he discussed Illinois' preparedness and response to several major natural disasters and called for needed changes to the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) disaster aid criteria. Under Governor Quinn's leadership the state of Illinois has managed response to disasters ranging from deadly tornadoes to recent extreme winter storms. The Governor is working with U.S. Senator Dick Durbin and the congressional delegation pass legislation to improve the federal formula in the disaster assistance process and help more people rebuild their lives.

"Illinois has faced a record number of historic natural disasters in recent years," Governor Quinn said. "Disaster assistance shouldn't be based on an outdated formula that excludes some of our hardest-hit communities. FEMA has been a great partner in helping individuals and businesses recover, and this legislation will allow them to assist even more communities with disaster recovery."

In the last five years, Illinois has been through 11 natural disasters, including a record drought in 2012; deadly tornadoes in 2012 and 2013; historic winter storms earlier this year; and floods, including the spring 2013 flooding in 49 counties that broke all-time records on four major river systems.

The severe winter weather in Jan. 2014 again saw the mobilization of state resources at Governor Quinn's direction - stranded motorists were rescued, roads kept open, warming centers provided and assistance offered to keep homes and businesses heated.

Governor Quinn also directed state agencies to assist citizens, businesses and local governments when catastrophic flash floods struck Illinois in April 2013. The Governor mobilized all available state resources to aid in cleanup and recovery, including debris removal, repairs, sandbagging, evacuations, supply deliveries and a grace period to file tax returns.

State assistance was also assembled for severe storms and flooding in June and July 2011, August 2010, and July 2009; tornadoes in June 2010; and severe winter storms in March 2009 and March 2011.

A tornado outbreak on Nov. 17, 2013 killed eight people, damaged or destroyed 2,500 homes and severely impacted the towns of Brookport, Gifford, New Minden, Diamond and Washington, Ill. The state was struck by 25 confirmed tornadoes in three hours, including two EF-4 twisters, the first ever of that strength during November. Governor Quinn successfully secured federal aid to assist people and businesses in 15 counties just nine days after the tornadoes caused widespread destruction across the state. However, FEMA denied the state's request for federal assistance to help local governments in nine impacted counties, based on the existing federal criteria.

These recent disasters highlight the need to update FEMA's criteria for awarding federal disaster aid. Legislation introduced in the U.S. House and Senate would bring more fairness to the federal disaster declaration process.

The Fairness in Federal Disaster Declarations Act of 2014 will give FEMA a clearer, more substantive formula when evaluating disaster areas. It will modify a flawed system that places small and rural communities in highly populated states at a disadvantage in the federal disaster declaration process. The bill assigns a specific weight to each of the factors already used by FEMA, and adds other economic factors for the agency to consider when determining whether or not an area should receive federal assistance.

Governor Quinn directed state agencies to assemble an $8.8 million aid package for the Harrisburg, Ill. area when FEMA was unable to provide aid to local governments for a Feb. 29, 2012 tornado that killed seven people. Several state of Illinois agencies provided funding and manpower to clean up, rebuild and improve storm-ravaged areas of southern Illinois as a part of Governor Quinn's commitment to make all possible assistance available to the area. The Governor also supported and signed a new state law preventing an increase in property taxes when a person rebuilds a home that was destroyed in a disaster.

Governor Quinn has also led the charge for improved state infrastructure so Illinois' vital transportation routes and water supplies are better equipped for what Mother Nature throws at the state. Shortly after taking office, Governor Quinn proposed, and the Illinois General Assembly passed, a $31 billion infrastructure construction program. In addition, the Illinois Tollway established a $12 billion construction program and the Governor created a $2 billion Clean Water Initiative to improve drinking and wastewater systems. Most recently the Governor announced legislation to expand the program to address flood and stormwater management issues in communities throughout Illinois.

Last year, Governor Quinn was appointed to the President's Task Force on Climate Preparedness and Resilience. The task force will recommend ways to strengthen the way states and the nation respond to natural disasters.

Flooding Issues Anticipated from Snow Melt; Motorists Encouraged to Use Extreme Caution

CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn today announced coordinated measures being taken by Illinois state agencies to prepare for heavy snow and rainfall, along with potential flooding and treacherous driving conditions in areas throughout the state. Today's announcement is part of Governor Quinn's commitment to keeping all Illinois residents safe this winter.

"As Illinois experiences another round of extreme weather, state of Illinois personnel and emergency crews are working around the clock to help keep people safe in these dangerous conditions," Governor Quinn said. "I urge everyone to use caution and stay alert while outdoors and to only travel if absolutely necessary."

National Weather Service forecasters predict the arrival of a strong cold front accompanied by strong winds with gusts over 50 mph, creating potential for whiteout conditions and debris on roadways. Flooding on pavements is also a concern with the combination of warm temperatures, melting snow, added rain, frozen surfaces and the anticipated temperature drop.

Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) crews are working to continually clear storm drains and are on standby to address the removal of snow and ice as needed from state routes to help ensure the safety of the motoring public.

Currently, all state routes are open. The Kampsville and Brussels Ferries remain closed due to ice on the river. IDOT will continue to monitor the weather statewide and respond accordingly. IDOT advises travelers to weigh the conditions carefully before venturing onto roadways during the storm.

"This unprecedented streak of winter weather continues to wreak havoc on Illinois, but travelers can be assured that IDOT crews will continue to work around the clock, as needed, to address flooding issues and to clear snow and ice," IDOT Secretary Ann L. Schneider said. "We also ask that the public continue to heed our advice to stay off the roads if possible during storms, and to drive sensibly to help avoid crashes, which often are caused by driving too fast for conditions or following too closely. Our goal is to help everyone get to their destinations safely and work towards zero fatalities on Illinois roadways."

The Illinois Tollway has cleared storm drains and is patrolling its 286-mile system to ensure crews can quickly respond if any flooding issues arise in low-lying areas.

"For their own safety, drivers should avoid traveling through standing water," Illinois Tollway Executive Director Kristi Lafleur said. "We urge our customers to travel cautiously and to dial *999 on a cellphone to report any flooding they may see on our roadways."

The Illinois State Police (ISP) statewide will be monitoring road conditions and are advising motorists to use caution when driving. Depending on the weather conditions, motorists can expect ramp closures and re-routes. ISP will be working closely with IDOT and other agency partners to provide assistance to stranded motorists and updated information on any hazardous driving conditions. Motorists should expect delays and lengthy commutes.

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) is maintaining close contact with the National Weather Service and local emergency management agencies across the state to stay abreast of any flooding issues. If assistance to communities is needed, IEMA can quickly summon liaisons from more than a dozen state agencies to the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) to coordinate the deployment of state resources and personnel.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is collecting river stage and precipitation information, and reviewing river forecasts and precipitation forecasts issued by the National Weather Service in order to make informed situational reports to the IEMA. IDNR is providing field observations to IEMA to help assess the extent and severity of a flood emergency.

The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) warns residents about the dangers of electrocution, carbon monoxide poison and gas leaks in flooded basements. With the flooding alert caused by the melted snow followed by heavy rain today, residents with basements or living in units below ground level should unplug any electric appliances and bring them above floor level. In addition, furnaces, water heaters and boilers should be inspected and monitored during the flood alert as a precaution to prevent the possibility of carbon monoxide leaks and gas leaks.

Electric shocks and electrocution are a common flood danger caused by contact with energized electrical equipment. The OSFM recommends people avoid entering a flooded area if the power has not been shut off. It also warns the public to stay away from downed power lines or other electrical equipment, especially if they are wet or standing in water.

The Governor also announced the State Incident Report Center (SIRC) is active today to coordinate the state's response to floods and will be in communication with other state agencies including ISP, IDOT, IDNR, the Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS), the Illinois National Guard (ILNG) and the Red Cross.

Drivers are reminded to exercise caution when snow and ice or flooding affect roadways, and IDOT advises travel only when absolutely necessary during storms or when temperatures are extremely low. Due to current weather conditions, IDOT encourages motorists who must travel to check the latest winter road conditions and road closures at gettingaroundillinois.com.

During severely cold weather, the Illinois Department of Human Services advises that Illinois residents limit exposure to cold temperatures, dress in layers, check in on others who may need additional assistance, keep vehicles in good repair and bring pets indoors. For a list of warming centers in Illinois, visit KeepWarm.Illinois.gov.

Flooding-related driving tips:

• Do not drive through flooded areas.
• If a road covered by water seems shallow enough to cross, do not attempt to do so.
• If your car stalls, do not attempt to push it out; seek higher ground.

Safety tips to remember:

• Allow extra time for travel during the winter months.
• Don't crowd the plow - a snow plow operator's field of vision is restricted. You may see them, but they may not see you.
• Be aware that black ice can form on roads that appear clear and the unseen ice can be treacherous. Take it slow when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges and shady areas - all are prone to black ice, which is often invisible.
• Always keep your gas tank at least two-thirds full to help prevent the vehicle's fuel line from freezing.
• Do not travel during bad weather unless absolutely necessary - if you do have to make a trip, check the forecast and make sure someone is aware of your travel route and schedule.
• Always carry an emergency car care kit that contains jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, a small ice scraper, traction material, blankets, non-perishable food and a first aid kit.
• Carry a few extra blankets in your car, and perhaps an extra coat to ensure protection in case of a breakdown.
• Carry a cell phone and dial *999 for roadway assistance in case of emergency (but remember using handheld phones while driving is illegal if it is not an emergency situation).
• Always wear a seat belt, front seat or back - it's the law.
• Check travel and road conditions routinely before any trip. You can get road condition information by calling 1-800-452-IDOT (4368), Illinois Tollway information by calling 1-800-TOLL-FYI or online at gettingaroundillinois.com and click on the "winter road conditions" icon.

Residents Should Use Extreme Caution While Traveling

CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn today urged people across Illinois to continue to take necessary precautions to stay safe and warm as the state continues to face a historic winter. As another major snowstorm approaches the area later today, strong measures are being taken by Illinois state agencies to continue keeping roads safe and clear. Today's update is part of Governor Quinn's commitment to keeping all Illinois residents safe and warm this winter

"I urge everyone to take precautions at home and on the road as another major snowstorm heads our way," Governor Quinn said. "If you must travel, please drive carefully. Our public safety workers have been working night and day to keep people safe and everyone must do their part to keep them safe as well."

The National Weather Service forecasts snow accumulations of five to nine inches throughout Illinois. Forecasters also warn of high winds up to 25 mph in some areas. The anticipated winter weather will create slick and dangerous travel conditions for motorists.

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the Illinois Tollway will have their crews working around the clock to keep roads clear and passable. IDOT is readying its fleet of 1,755 snowplows and 3,700 employees ahead of the next winter storm to remove snow and ice. The Tollway is assigning its full fleet of 182 snowplows and more than 200 workers per shift to clear the roads.

Motorists are urged to drive defensively and safely, travel only if absolutely necessary, slow down and buckle up. In addition, a new state law prohibits motorists from talking on all but hands-free mobile phones while driving.

Other roadway safety tips to remember:

·        Don't crowd snowplows - an operator's field of vision is restricted.

·        Allow extra time for travel during the winter months.

·        Watch out for black ice. Roads may appear clear, but can be treacherous. Slow down when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges and shady areas - all are prone to black ice, which is often invisible.

·        Pull over and dial *999 for emergency roadway assistance.

Check travel and road conditions routinely before any trip. You can get road condition information by calling 1-800-452-IDOT (4368), Illinois Tollway information by calling 1-800-TOLL-FYI or online at gettingaroundillinois.com and click on the "winter road conditions" icon.

The Illinois State Police has assisted hundreds of motorists and reminds motorists to continue to use caution, reduce speeds and allow extra time. Officials are also reminding the motoring public to be mindful of Scott's Law and to yield to emergency and heavy equipment on the interstates and roads. Any minor accidents not requiring emergency care can be reported within 10 days at the nearest police station.

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) will continue to monitor the winter weather conditions throughout Illinois and stands ready to activate emergency state resources if necessary. IEMA also advises every household to have a disaster preparedness kit that will help residents stay safe for at least three days. The kits should include a battery-powered NOAA weather radio, a flashlight, extra batteries, non-perishable food, water, a first-aid kit, extra medications and special items needed for babies, disabled or elderly family members and pets.

If you must travel, IEMA and IDOT recommend you equip your vehicle with an emergency supply kit to keep you safe in case you are stranded along the road. A vehicle preparedness kit should include a cell phone and charger, flashlight, extra batteries, first-aid kit, snack foods and water, blankets, extra warm clothing, gloves and hats, sand or kitty litter, shovel, windshield scraper, booster cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid and a tool kit. Always keep your gas tank at least two-thirds full to help prevent the vehicle's fuel line from freezing.

Before you depart, check weather and road conditions along your route and provide your planned route to a family member or friend. If conditions are dangerous, postpone travel until road conditions improve. IEMA and the National Weather Service have developed a Winter Weather Preparedness Guide that contains additional tips about winter weather safety. The guide is available at the Ready Illinois website at Ready.Illinois.Gov.

As the weather turns colder this evening, residents can take advantage of the state's warming centers. These include Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) offices throughout the state, which are open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Illinois Tollway Oases, which are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To find a warming center near you, call the IDHS hotline at (800) 843-6154 or visit KeepWarm.Illinois.gov.

The Illinois Department on Aging is encouraging relatives and friends to make daily visits or calls to senior citizens living alone. Older people are more susceptible to the cold, so seniors should set their thermostats above 65 degrees. Those particularly vulnerable are older people who take certain medications, drink alcohol, lack proper nutrition, or who have conditions such as arthritis, stroke, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

Tips to staying safe and warm in winter conditions:

·        Dress in layers, both indoors and outdoors.

·        Keep active. Make a list of exercises and activities to do indoors when you can't get out.

·        Eat well and drink 10 glasses of water daily; stock up on non-perishable food supplies, just in case.

·        Keep extra medications in the house. If this is not possible, make arrangements to have someone pick up and deliver your medications.

·        Do not shovel snow or walk in deep snow. Plan now for someone else to shovel the snow. The strain from the cold and hard labor could cause a heart attack; sweating can lead to a chill and even hypothermia.

Additionally, shoveling snow is hard work and you should not shovel snow unless you are in good physical condition. Cold weather itself, without any physical exertion, puts an extra strain on your heart. Know your limits when shoveling snow. Rest frequently and pace yourself. If you become breathless, stop, go indoors and warm up before continuing. If you experience chest or arm pain or numbness, stop immediately and go indoors.

Steps Make it Easier and Faster to Transport Heating Fuels from Other States to Address Shortages in Illinois

CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn today announced emergency actions to alleviate the short supply and high prices of liquefied propane gas and heating oil in Illinois. The actions make it quicker and easier to transport these fuels from other states into Illinois. Today's announcement is part of Governor Quinn's agenda to ensure the safety of people in every community across Illinois.

"When cold temperatures force energy supplies to go down and prices to go up, it leaves consumers in a bind," Governor Quinn said. "These actions will quickly bring more propane and heating oil into Illinois to help make sure families can safely and affordably heat their homes during this historic cold stretch."

Governor Quinn has issued a disaster proclamation to allow Illinois licensed truckers to travel through other states to obtain these fuels and deliver them to Illinois without applying for additional licenses. The declaration also allows drivers to remain behind the wheel longer in order to retrieve heating fuel from other states and bring it back to Illinois. These actions increase the number of drivers available to bring propane into Illinois from other states.

In addition, the tax for out-of-state trucks that use Illinois roads is being temporarily suspended by the Illinois Department of Revenue for trucks that are delivering heating fuels to Illinois. The U.S. Department of Transportation has also issued an emergency declaration that also provides for federal regulatory relief for motor vehicles delivering LP gas and heating fuels to affected areas.

A higher than usual nationwide demand for the fuels is being caused by a much colder than normal winter that is gripping large parts of the nation, including areas that don't normally experience extreme cold. This is compounded by a wet harvest season that required an unusually heavy use of propane gas to dry grain.