MADISON, Wis. – A winter storm is expected to impact west central Wisconsin Friday
afternoon and into the weekend, bringing with it the possibility of heavy snowfall that could
disrupt travel across the region. ReadyWisconsin is encouraging those who live or plan to travel
through the area to act now to remain safe.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued Winter Storm Warnings for several counties in
the west central part of the state and in neighboring Minnesota through midday Saturday. The
NWS says the region could see 6-12 inches of snow, with higher snowfall totals possible in some
areas. The snow is expected to start falling on Friday and continue into the overnight hours, with
snowfall rates of 1-3 inches an hour possible at times. The storm could greatly impact afternoon
travel, reducing visibility and leaving roads covered in snow.
To help prepare, ReadyWisconsin encourages people to take the following actions:
- Make sure you have fully stocked emergency kits in your home and your vehicle. Home
kits should include items like non-perishable food, fresh water, and batteries. Vehicle kits
should also have extra hats and gloves, blankets, an ice scraper, snow shovel, and kitty
litter or sand to give you traction in case you get stuck in the snow. Find tips on what to
include in your kit at https://readywisconsin.wi.gov/make-a-kit/ - To help protect yourself in your vehicle, remain distraction-free while driving and adjust
your speed for current conditions. Check travel conditions for most major roadways in
the state before you leave home by using 511 Wisconsin. This information, along with
live traffic cameras and traffic alerts, is accessible through the free 511WI mobile app, on
Twitter, or the mobile-friendly site https://www.511wi.gov. - If you get stuck while traveling, remain with your vehicle if it’s safe to do so and contact
9-1-1. Give police a description of your location and wait for help to arrive. - Stay informed about current and expected weather conditions by following your local
National Weather Service office and other trusted local sources for updates. Get a NOAA
All-Hazards Weather Radio and use it to get updates. - After the snow ends, give road crews room to work. In addition to clearing snow from
driveways and walkways, check external vents on your home for blockages. If you have a
fire hydrant on your property, clear the snow so there’s at least three feet of open space
around it.
For more tips on getting ready for winter weather, visit the ReadyWisconsin website at
https://readywisconsin.wi.gov/.You can also follow ReadyWisconsin on Facebook and Twitter
for tips throughout the winter months and updates on dangerous weather conditions.
