In the aftermath of widespread storm damage, Northwest Indiana residents are confronting a concerning gasoline shortage.
Because power remains out across large parts of the area, Indiana State Police are advising that anyone traveling into the region should do so with a full tank of gas rather than expecting to gas up once they arrive.
Here's what to know
According to NWI Times, police say fuel availability is under pressure across the area, and the stations still operating are drawing heavy crowds.
The agency said, as the Times reported, "Due to power outages, the gas stations that are open are very busy and may run out of fuel at the current rate of need with generators running."
Vehicle traffic is only part of the demand. Many households are using generators, and local social media pages have been filled with requests for gasoline for both transportation and generator use, the outlet reported.
Police also advised motorists to make their fuel stops before reaching the most severely affected part of the area.
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More background
Gas shortages are only one piece of the recovery effort. Police said many secondary roads are still blocked by storm debris, including fallen trees and downed wires, making travel slower and more hazardous even for drivers who do have enough fuel.
What can be done?
For anyone who needs to drive into the area, the guidance is to arrive with a full tank, avoid unnecessary trips, and expect delays.
Drivers should also be prepared for closures and dangerous conditions off the main highways. Police warned, "Many secondary roads remain blocked with down wires and trees that will take days to be cleared."
"Travel safe, and if you can avoid travel, please consider doing so until roadways are clear and power restored," they continued.
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