National Guard To Aid Drivers In Blizzard

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (CBS) -- Gov. Pat Quinn has called out the National Guard to assist motorists stranded on interstate highways during the coming blizzard.

The National Guard troops will be stationed at rest areas along interstate highways, including Interstate 70 downstate and all highways to the north of it. The National Guard will coordinate with Illinois state Police to ensure the safety of all drivers on the roads, the governor's office said.

"We must do everything we can to keep motorists safe during this massive winter storm," Quinn said in a nrews release. "These troops from the Illinois National Guard will help ensure public safety along the roadways."

National Guard troops stationed along the highways will carry supplies such as water and snack bars, and provide roadside safety tips to stranded motorists. Guard members will also relay information regarding road conditions, accidents and stranded motorists to state police troopers.

Quinn issued a disaster declaration for the blizzard on Monday.

In the city of Chicago, most of the Cook County suburbs and Northwest Indiana, snow totals will likely top out in excess of 18 inches, CBS 2 Meteorologist Megan Glaros reported.

The Sun-Times Media Wire contributed to this report.

In:
• Pat Quinn
• Blizzard