La Crosse, Wisconsin – A dangerous and potentially historic winter storm is expected to impact Wisconsin and parts of northeast Iowa beginning this evening, bringing heavy snow, ice accumulation, and blizzard conditions through Monday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, snowfall totals could reach 18 to 30 inches across north-central Wisconsin, with localized amounts approaching 36 inches in areas including Medford, Wausau, and surrounding communities. Snowfall rates may reach 2 to 4 inches per hour Sunday morning north of Highway 29, making travel extremely dangerous.
Across the Interstate 90 corridor, including La Crosse, Winona, Black River Falls, and Tomah, forecasters expect 7 to 15 inches of snow, with some areas initially seeing a wintry mix and ice accumulation of 0.10 to 0.25 inches before transitioning to all snow Sunday afternoon.
As the storm intensifies, north-northwest winds of 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 45 to 55 mph will develop Sunday afternoon and evening. The combination of heavy snow and strong winds could create blizzard conditions with whiteout visibility and significant drifting snow.
Meteorologists warn that travel may become impossible in many areas, particularly near and north of Interstate 90, with the most severe conditions expected Sunday night through early Monday morning.
Officials are urging residents to avoid travel unless it is an emergency, prepare for potential power outages and tree damage, and ensure vehicles have winter emergency supplies if travel cannot be postponed.
