La Crosse, WI – Drivers across western and central Wisconsin are being urged to use extreme caution this afternoon as rain rapidly transitions to snow, creating hazardous travel conditions and leading to reported accidents.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, roadways west of the Mississippi River have already become snow-covered and slippery as temperatures drop and snowfall intensifies. The weather system is moving from west to east, with conditions expected to deteriorate through the afternoon as snow and increasing winds move into the region.
Forecasters say some areas may see snowfall rates of up to one inch per hour, with total accumulations ranging from 1 to 3 inches. Visibility could drop to one mile or less at times, especially during heavier snow bursts. Gusty winds may further reduce visibility by blowing snow across roadways.
The greatest impacts are expected during the midday to late afternoon hours, coinciding with school dismissals and evening commute times. Multiple counties in western and central Wisconsin, as well as parts of southeast Minnesota and northeast Iowa, are included in the advisory area.
Officials are urging drivers to slow down, increase following distance, and delay travel if possible. Even treated roads may quickly become slick as snowfall intensifies and temperatures continue to fall.
Motorists traveling along major routes near the Mississippi River and surrounding highways should be especially cautious, as changing conditions may occur quickly with little warning.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts, road condition reports, and updates from emergency management officials as the storm continues to evolve.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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