SOUTHFIELD, Mich. (WXYZ) — As we prepare for the threat of ice and a very slippery and dangerous commute Wednesday morning, metro Detroiters are also taking the necessary measures to ensure they’re ready for anything.
The interstates and roads will be very slick and dangerous for anyone traveling on them. Crews are making the necessary arrangements to stay ahead of the threat, saying it’s important you prepare in advance before it’s too late.
"We have four seasons here in Michigan, you get them all, sometimes all in one day," said Gregory Hodges as he was loading up on supplies.
Schools are also closing in some areas of metro Detroit.
"I would imagine you might find a few more schools closed," said Superintendent of Hazel Park schools, Dr. Amy Kruppe.
Air traffic controls at DTW are also making the necessary arrangements.
"Because of the severity of the forecast, our management has asked some of us, myself included, to come in earlier than our scheduled shift," said Mike Redies, Air Traffic controlle.
People everywhere are preparing for the threat of ice.
"It’s not going to bother me. We are well prepared for it," Hodges said. "It would be a bother to someone who is new to this state."
Hazel Park school district was one of the first to cancel school, putting student and teacher safety first.
"My parents were already reaching out to me on Facebook and saying doctor kruppe are we going to close," said Superintendent Dr. Kruppe. "We’re worried for our community and our safety."
Air traffic controllers at DTW are also preparing for a long and demanding day. From potential flight cancellations to delays, this threat of ice has them on their toes.
"We certainly do the best that we can, but obviously safety is paramount," Redies said. "So it takes as long to de-ice the planes as it take and with a situation of freezing rain it can take longer than 30 minutes."
Many people are loading up on necessary supplies. Just in case of a power outage and forced to stay home for a few days.
"I’ve got canned goods," said Carlos Phillips. "I got batteries, everything is charged and ready."
For a complete list of school cancellations go to our website at wxyz.com. If you are flying tomorrow morning, it’s recommended you check with your airline to make sure everything is still on time. If you are going to be on the roads, plan ahead and give yourself plenty of extra time to get to your destination.
