Snow and ice removal is an inexact science. Different storms bring different problems which require different levels and types of responses. Several factors directly contribute to the severity and impact of a storm.
1. The Length of the Storm: Extended snow storms make snow and ice removal more challenging for plow operators. It is much easier to clear eight inches of snow that falls over a six hour period in comparison to a four inch snow that falls over a twenty-four hour period. Unlike most area towns Grayslake plows all streets throughout extended storms rather than just focusing on larger arterial streets until the snow ends.
2. The Composition of the Snow: Snow moisture levels vary based on temperature. The closer the temperature is to 32 degrees Fahrenheit, the heavier the content of the snow will be. Heavy snow makes snow and ice removal much more difficult and slower. The process is more efficient and effective when snow is dry and fluffy.
3. Rush Hour Effect: Morning and late-afternoon snow storms will increase your driving times. Snow during rush hour periods also slows plow trucks since plow trucks must share the road with the higher traffic volumes of rush period. This can slow plowing operations. Try and stay updated on predicted weather conditions and make your travel plans accordingly. As is standard procedure, the Village plow and salt crews will clear the snow and ice as quickly as possible when these particularly inconvenient storms occur.
4. Deicing Materials: Almost every community uses salt for pavement deicing. This is to reduce icy conditions and pavements to some degree. How different communities apply these materials impacts results. More frequent applications and higher amounts of salt can improve pavement conditions but this must be balanced with environmental impacts. Grayslake uses more salt than some towns and less than others. The Village uses an environmentally friendly alternative to salt only to help deice streets. This alternative combines traditional road salt and a beet by-product which reduces the amount of salt needed and increases the deicing effectiveness at lower temperatures.