SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (Chambana Today) — The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and the National Weather Service are recognizing Winter Weather Preparedness Week by urging residents to get ready now for the challenges of winter.

“Illinois weather can shift at any moment and the best time to prepare for unpredictable weather is before it begins,” said IEMA Acting Director Ted Berger. NWS Meteorologist Ed Shimon added that winter storms cause about 27 deaths and thousands of injuries annually in Illinois. “It is imperative for everyone to take seriously their preparations and planning for winter weather,” he said.

Officials recommend winterizing homes, building emergency kits, and staying weather aware. More safety resources are available at Ready.Illinois.gov.