Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Roads across southern Wisconsin could become hazardous within hours Saturday night as a powerful three-phase winter storm begins with snow and ice before transitioning to rain and then returning as heavy wind-driven snow by late Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan, a Winter Weather Advisory begins at 7 p.m. Saturday and continues until 10 a.m. Sunday for parts of central and east-central Wisconsin including Fond du Lac, Sheboygan, Portage, and Beaver Dam. During this first phase, 1 to 3 inches of snow and sleet could fall along with ice accumulations near 0.10 inches, with isolated spots approaching a quarter inch.
By late Sunday morning into Sunday afternoon, warmer air may briefly change precipitation to rain across much of southern Wisconsin, including Madison, Milwaukee, Racine, and Kenosha. A few thunderstorms are possible during this transition.
The most impactful phase begins late Sunday afternoon as colder air surges back into the region. Heavy banded snowfall could produce 5 to 9 inches across central and east-central Wisconsin, while areas farther south may see 4 to 7 inches. Wind gusts up to 45 mph could blow snow across highways such as I-94, I-41, and U.S. 151, reducing visibility below a quarter mile at times.
The combination of heavy snow, ice, and strong winds could snap tree limbs and trigger sporadic power outages across the region. Officials warn that both the Monday morning and evening commutes could be significantly impacted.
Residents should prepare for rapidly changing conditions, charge electronic devices, and avoid unnecessary travel as the storm intensifies. Additional warnings or upgrades may be issued as snowfall bands develop across southern Wisconsin through Monday evening.
