Residents are urged to plan ahead and take precautions due to the severe weather expected as early as Thursday evening, January 22. Wind chills as low as 35 degrees below zero are possible.
- UPDATE: Due to the extreme cold, Village Hall will be closed on Friday, January 23. Please use the online Service Request System to to ensure questions and requests are routed to the correct staff. You may also leave a message at 847-367-3700, and we will return you call as soon as possible. To schedule a building inspection for the week of January 26, please send the request to inspections@vhills.org – include the address, permit number, contact name/phone, inspection type and requested day/time.
- Metra Riders will experience reduced schedules and longer travel times on Friday, January 23. Reducing the number of trains also reduces the number of opportunities for issues with switch points, which are difficult to maintain during extreme cold. Trains will also run slower. More information is available on the Metra Memo. Revised schedules and updates will be posted at Metra.com.
- Many schools, offices and other organizations will be closed or on reduced schedules. Please check with each organization for schedule changes.
- Drivers should take extra care as ice melting methods are less effective during extreme cold. Reduce speeds and take extra time when traveling.
- If you don't need to leave your home during severe weather, stay home. Being outside during extreme cold and wind events are dangerous – frostbite can set in within minutes.
- Lake County maintains warming stations around the region. Hawthorn Mall also serves as a warming station during their regular business hours. Learn more by visiting the Lake County Warming Stations map. It is suggested that residents call ahead to warming stations to ensure they are open and available.
- Emergency Updates impacting resident of Vernon Hills are provided through the Blackboard Connect Reverse 911 System. Note that residents and other interested individuals must sign up to receive information, either by text, phone or voice message. The service is free – all are encouraged to sign up on the Village's Blackboard Connect webpage.
- Consider loading a weather alert app, on your phone, which is usually provided at no charge by local TV news stations. Weather updates are also available from the National Weather Service Chicago Office.
- Consider the typical safety reminders: Check on your neighbors – make sure your neighborhood fire hydrant is clear - keep your faucets dripping to keep your pipes from freezing - monitor space heaters and heat sources.
- If you need help, consider 211LakeCounty.org. If you are experiencing an emergency, dial 911 immediately.
- Be safe – stay warm and safe.
