Palos Park, IL – Drivers in southwest Cook County are seeing minor traffic impacts today after high winds pushed branches and small trees into several Palos Park roadways early Thursday morning.
According to the Palos Park Police Department, overnight patrol beats reported multiple locations where debris blocked lanes or created hazards for passing vehicles. Officers were able to clear the affected roadways, and the department has deployed additional resources throughout Thanksgiving Day to monitor conditions as winds continue across the region.
Police said no major crashes were reported, but the high winds created enough scattered debris to slow traffic in certain residential and wooded sections of town. Much of Palos Park is lined with heavy tree cover, and officers noted that gusty conditions often increase the risk of falling branches during late-fall weather shifts.
The National Weather Service has forecast continued breezy conditions for parts of Cook County, with gusts expected to remain elevated through the afternoon before tapering off in the evening. Residents traveling for Thanksgiving gatherings are urged to drive cautiously, especially on rural or tree-lined roads where debris may reappear throughout the day.
Police also reminded drivers to report any downed trees, fallen limbs, or blocked lanes so that public works crews and additional patrol units can respond quickly. With holiday travel expected to peak later today, officials say keeping roads clear will help prevent delays and potential accidents.
No power outages or injuries were reported in connection with the wind-related issues as of Thursday morning.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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