Winter storm warning causing hazardous driving conditions throughout Wisconsin
A winter storm warning is currently in effect statewide through Friday afternoon (Dec. 21), with hazardous travel likely over the next two days. Conditions are expected to change rapidly. Heavy snow and high winds will result in blizzard conditions and hazardous driving. Driving is expected to be especially treacherous today and could have life-threatening impacts. Motorists are advised to cancel or delay travel plans.
Additionally, there is potential for significant travel impacts into Friday, with relatively heavy travel anticipated due to the extended holiday weekend.
Snow fall is intensifying across the central part of the state along a path extending from Madison in the southwest towards Green Bay in the northeast. Total accumulations throughout the day and into the evening could exceed one foot.
In the southeast near Milwaukee, rain will begin to freeze and change to snow this afternoon. This will create very hazardous driving conditions during the afternoon rush hour.
Interstate and state highway travelers, particularly commercial vehicles, are likely to find travel through the state between Chicago and the Twin Cities very difficult, and may encounter life-threatening conditions.
Oversize/overweight permits are currently suspended. Motor carriers may check the DOT Web site for further information.
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation advises that travelers check winter road conditions before leaving home by calling 5-1-1 or visiting Wisconsin 511 online at www.511wi.gov.
If motorists must drive during the storm, please be prepared:
• Plan ahead and allow plenty of extra time for travel.
• Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights before driving.
• Go slow. Remember the posted speed limits are for dry pavement.
• Watch for slippery bridge decks which ice up sooner than pavement.
• Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows.
• Drive alert, sober and leave plenty of room for stopping.
• Don’t use cruise control in wintry conditions.
• Always wear seatbelts and keep both hands on the wheel.
• Keep a charged cell phone handy.
• Keep at least a half tank of gas in your vehicle.
• Inform someone of your travel plans and approximate arrival time.
Additional winter driving tips can be found on the WisDOT Web site at
www.dot.wisconsin.gov/safety/motorist/winterdriving/index.htm.
Leave a reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.