Blizzard Warning Issued for West-Central Wisconsin; Up to 36 Inches of Snow Forecast

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in La Crosse, WI, has issued a Blizzard Warning for several counties in west-central Wisconsin. This follows an initial Winter Storm Warning as a dangerous and potentially historic winter storm moves into the region. The alert is classified with extreme severity and likely certainty.

Affected Areas

The warning impacts the following Wisconsin counties:

• Clark
• Taylor
• Buffalo
• Trempealeau
• Jackson

Expected Conditions

Residents should prepare for life-threatening winter weather conditions, including:

• Snowfall: Total accumulations of 18 to 36 inches are expected north of Interstate 94, which may approach all-time records for north-central Wisconsin. Areas south of Interstate 94 can expect 10 to 18 inches.
• Snowfall Rates: Rates of 2 to 4 inches per hour are likely across northern Clark and Taylor counties early Sunday morning.
• Ice Accumulation: Freezing rain may result in one to three tenths of an inch of ice near the Interstate 90 corridor on Sunday morning.
• Wind and Visibility: Wind gusts between 35 and 50 mph will create widespread blowing snow, reducing visibility to 1/4 mile or less at times.
• Impacts: Travel is expected to be impossible. The combination of heavy snow, ice, and high winds may cause power outages and significant tree damage.

Timeline

• Winter Storm Warning: In effect from 7:00 PM this evening until 10:00 AM CDT Sunday.
• Blizzard Warning: In effect from 10:00 AM CDT Sunday until 7:00 AM CDT Monday.
• Peak Conditions: Snowfall rates increase overnight Saturday, with blizzard conditions developing Sunday afternoon.

What You Should Do

Travel should be restricted to emergencies only. If you must travel, keep a winter survival kit in your vehicle including a flashlight, food, and water. If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle. Residents are encouraged to monitor road conditions via 511wi.gov in Wisconsin or 511mn.org in Minnesota.