La Crosse, Wisconsin – Hazardous travel conditions continued across portions of western Wisconsin, southeast Minnesota, and northeast Iowa early Monday as a winter storm system moved out of the region.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, snow showers were winding down from west to east through about 6 a.m., but strong northwest winds continued to create dangerous travel conditions. Wind gusts between 30 and 40 mph caused blowing and drifting snow, reducing visibility and making roads slick even where snowfall had tapered off.
In La Crosse, roadways remained snow covered early Monday, while surrounding communities including Winona, Minnesota; Rochester, Minnesota; Decorah, Iowa; and Eau Claire, Wisconsin reported reduced visibility and slippery travel conditions. The National Weather Service noted that visibility dropped to 1 mile or less at times, particularly in open areas where snow was easily blown across roadways.
Road condition maps showed a mix of partially snow-covered, completely snow-covered, and travel-not-advised routes across the region during the early morning hours. Motorists traveling on interstates and rural highways experienced rapidly changing conditions as gusty winds pushed snow back onto cleared surfaces.
The National Weather Service urged drivers who must travel to slow down, allow extra stopping distance, and consider delaying or altering travel plans until conditions improve. Blowing snow was also cited as a concern for sudden whiteout conditions, especially on east-west roads.
While snowfall intensity was decreasing, officials stressed that lingering impacts from wind and drifting snow could continue to affect the morning commute, particularly for workers, students, and early travelers.
Residents are encouraged to check state road condition websites and continue monitoring official updates from the National Weather Service before heading out.
