La Crosse, Wisconsin – A narrow band of accumulating snow is expected to move through western Wisconsin and southeast Minnesota on Saturday, with 1 to 3 inches common and localized totals up to 4 inches possible along the I-90 corridor between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Forecasters indicate the snow will organize into a focused swath somewhere across the region, but the exact placement of the heavier band remains uncertain. Recent trends suggest a slight northward shift compared to earlier projections, increasing the chance that communities near La Crosse, Onalaska and areas along Highway 53 could see higher totals.
Within the heavier portion of the band, snowfall rates may briefly approach 1 inch per hour during the afternoon. Roads along I-90, US-14 and I-94 could become snow-covered quickly, especially during periods of steadier snowfall. Visibility may also drop at times, creating hazardous travel conditions.
Most locations are expected to receive between 1 and 3 inches, but a 20 to 40 percent chance exists for totals closer to 4 inches where the band sets up. Small shifts of 20 to 30 miles could significantly change who experiences the highest accumulations.
Northwest winds are not expected to be particularly strong, which should limit blowing and drifting. However, untreated surfaces and bridges may become slick as temperatures hover near freezing.
Snow should taper off by early evening, with gradual improvement in travel conditions Saturday night. Motorists are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts and check road conditions before heading out, as the exact track and intensity of the snow band may still change.
