Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Lake effect snow is expected to impact the Lake Michigan shoreline today, creating slick travel conditions during the late morning commute and early afternoon hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan, a narrow band of lake effect snow will gradually drift onshore between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. CST, affecting lakeshore counties including Milwaukee, Racine, Kenosha, Ozaukee, and Sheboygan. The heaviest snowfall rates are expected from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., particularly near major roadways such as I-94, I-43, and Highway 32.
Snowfall rates are forecast to reach 0.5 to 1 inch per hour within the strongest parts of the band. Total accumulations of 1 to 2 inches are expected along the immediate lakeshore, with isolated totals of 2 to 4 inches possible closest to Lake Michigan. Areas farther inland, including the Madison metro area, are expected to remain mostly dry or see only a light dusting.
Forecasters note that the lake effect band will “waffle” onshore and offshore through the afternoon, meaning snowfall may be intermittent but intense at times. This setup can cause rapidly changing road conditions over short distances, especially on untreated pavement.
North winds are expected to increase later in the afternoon, pushing the snow band back offshore. Snow showers should end for all areas by 5 to 6 p.m. CST, with dry conditions expected into the evening.
The National Weather Service reports that arrival times for the snow have shifted 1 to 3 hours later than earlier forecasts, but expected snowfall amounts remain unchanged.
Drivers traveling along I-94, I-43, and nearby shoreline routes should plan for reduced visibility, slick spots, and brief periods of hazardous travel, particularly during the late morning and midday hours.
