Lake County Gazette

A Winter Storm Warning has been issued for lakefront areas starting at 9 PM on November 9 and lasting until noon on Monday, November 10. The National Weather Service warns that lake effect snow could create dangerous travel conditions in these communities, with snowfall rates potentially exceeding three inches per hour and localized accumulations of more than 12 inches. Northerly wind gusts may surpass 30 mph. The highest snowfall is expected near and east of Interstate 94 if the lake effect snow reaches Lake County, while the western side of the county is likely to see less accumulation.

Travelers are advised to exercise caution and watch for snow plows and crews working to clear roads. Up-to-date traffic information can be accessed online at Lake County Passage.

The City’s Public Works Department is prepared for snow removal operations and is closely monitoring weather developments. Information about the city’s snow removal plan is available at cityhpil.com/snow. Residents can contact Public Works during business hours at 847.432.0807 or report after-hours concerns by calling the non-emergency line at 847.432.7730; emergencies should be reported via 911.

Power outages can be reported through comed.com/outage, the ComEd app, or by calling 1.800.EDISON1. If warming centers need to be activated due to power loss, updates will be posted on social media and at cityhpil.com/warmingcenters.

The city's Snow and Ice Control Plan aims for a prompt response to changing winter conditions by prioritizing effective snow removal. Public Works coordinates with public safety staff to identify areas requiring extra attention for salting or plowing. Under normal circumstances involving three inches of snow or less, all public streets are typically cleared within six to eight hours, although severe storms may extend this timeline.

Highland Park maintains approximately 130 miles of sidewalk, with 32 miles near schools, train stations, public buildings, and business districts plowed during all snow events regardless of accumulation level. These sidewalks are usually pre-treated with brine before snowfall begins. When snowfall reaches four inches or more, an authorized contractor will clear the remaining sidewalks; this process may begin within 12–24 hours after the storm starts and could take up to two days or longer depending on priorities and storm intensity.

For lesser amounts of snow (under four inches), property owners adjacent to public sidewalks are responsible for clearing them.

The Fire Department asks residents to help keep fire hydrants accessible by removing nearby snow: "If there is a fire hydrant on or near your property, please consider clearing away the snow. By doing so, you will save firefighters precious time responding to a fire."

To support efficient plowing operations, overnight street parking is not allowed between December 1 and March 31 from 2:00 AM to 6:00 AM. Residents are also encouraged not to park on streets during significant snowfall events until cleanup is complete.

City ordinances prohibit moving snow from one property onto another without consent unless it is placed on the city parkway directly adjacent to the originating property on the same side of the street. Both private contractors and property owners must comply with these rules; violations can result in fines up to $200.

Snow shoveling can pose health risks if not done carefully. The Highland Park Fire Department offers safety guidance:

"Warm up your muscles. Shoveling can be a vigorous activity. Before you begin, warm up your muscles for 10 minutes with light exercise.

Pace yourself. Snow shoveling and snow blowing are aerobic activities. Take frequent breaks and prevent dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids. If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or other signs of a heart attack, stop the activity and call 911 immediately!

Use proper equipment. Use a shovel that is comfortable for your height and strength. Do not use a shovel that is too heavy or too long for you. Space your hands on the tool grip to increase your leverage.

Proper lifting. Try to push the snow instead of lifting it. If you must lift, do it properly. Squat with your legs apart, knees bent, and back straight. Lift with your legs. Do not bend at the waist. Scoop small amounts of snow into the shovel and walk to where you want to dump it. Holding a shovelful of snow with your arms outstretched puts too much weight on your spine. Never remove deep snow all at once. Do it in pieces.

Safe technique. Do not throw the snow over your shoulder or to the side. This requires a twisting motion that stresses your back."

Residents are reminded that they may ultimately be cited if their contractors violate city rules regarding improper placement of removed snow.