ALLEGAN County, Mich. — Motorists in Allegan County likely experienced slick roads and whiteout conditions, Monday. Blowing and drifting snow are the precise reasons residents are being asked to stay off the roads.
“Traveling is pretty treacherous right now,” captain Frank baker with the Allegan County Sheriff’s Department said.
Treacherous is the only way to describe FOX 17’s drive down 122nd Avenue just north of Allegan. Visibility was down to near zero, and we couldn’t see anything.
“Right now with the wind the way it is, and with the roads being snow-covered and the visibility being almost non-existent in areas, we’re asking the public’s cooperation in staying off the roads as much as possible,” Baker explained.
Baker, along with the county’s emergency management division, put out the alert out just after noon Monday.
As citizens try to dig out of more than a foot of snow, Baker said many businesses decided to close up shop midday.
County employees were also released to go home. All Allegan County government offices closed at 2 p.m.
“We’re sending our staff home early so that they can hopefully make it before it gets dark at least. But it’s gonna take ya a lot longer to get anywhere right now,” Baker said.
“If you do have to travel, we’re requesting that you do slow down. Visibility is going to be a concern and if it seems clear at the time, there’s gonna be a gust of wind to come up probably in the next few seconds that’s gonna cause a white out. So please so down,” he added.
Baker advises drivers prepare a survival kit. The kit could include snacks, a blanket, and medication (if necessary), etcetera. He said these items will come in handy if a motorist finds themselves stuck in a ditch for a length of time before help arrives.
