Eastern chills
The National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory from 9 p.m. Monday to 9 a.m. Tuesday.
Between 1-2 inches of snow and freezing rain can be expected in the area.
With temperatures reaching as low as in the single digits, students across campus have been bundling up and staying inside.
Steve Mackowiak has been going to class and staying indoors since the temperatures have taken a dip.
“I cut back on smoking,” said the junior marketing major.
Mackowiak smokes less when the temperatures drop, he added.
Having class in Lumpkin and Coleman Hall helps since he only needs to walk from Thomas Hall where he lives.
Freshman mathematics major Laura Kirchner wasn’t deterred from the weather since she is from central Illinois, but she wasn’t expecting the “stingy face.”
“I couldn’t get from one place to another without my eyes burning,” she said.
The cold has made her change her plans when it comes to her meals.
Living in the Triad, she eats at Stevenson more often, instead of taking the long walk to the South Quad.
To combat the weather when going to class, she cuts through the Booth Library to stay warm.
Lisa Vahling lives in Pemberton Hall and has classes in Lumpkin Hall, so she cuts through the library as well.
“I dress in a lot of layers,” said the sophomore accounting major.
Vahling doesn’t have a car on campus, so any plans aren’t canceled because of the weather.
When it comes to driving during the winter, the Secretary of State’s Office makes some suggestions.
Slowing down, increasing following distance and braking slowly can prevent cars from spinning or sliding on the ice.
Ice may be more prevalent on bridges, overpasses, turns or shaded areas.
Also, removing all snow and ice from the car will increase visibility.
Other tips from the Secretary of State’s Office
-Carry a blanket, food and other survival equipment, such as a shovel, in case the car becomes stranded.
-If stranded, drivers should remain in the car at all times and run the engine only for brief moments.
Windows should be opened to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. The tailpipe needs to remain clear of snow and other debris.
Matt Hopf can be reached at 581-7942 or at mthopf@eiu.edu.