Milwaukee, Wis. — Light to moderate snow and a wintry mix created slick travel conditions across southeastern and southwestern Wisconsin early Friday, impacting the morning commute along I-94, I-90, and I-43.
The National Weather Service in Milwaukee said snow continued into the early morning hours at rates up to one-half inch per hour, with pockets of freezing drizzle and ice pellets mixing in west of I-90. Most areas picked up an inch of snow or less, but even light accumulations caused untreated roads to turn slick before sunrise.
The most persistent snow fell east of I-90, affecting I-94 through Milwaukee, Racine, and Kenosha, where narrow bands briefly pushed totals just over an inch. West of I-90, including Madison and Janesville, a wintry mix produced patchy icing on bridges, overpasses, and secondary roads.
Communities impacted include Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine, Kenosha, Madison, Janesville, Fond du Lac, and Sheboygan. Drivers encountered reduced visibility during bursts of snow and sudden slick spots where freezing drizzle developed.
Snow and wintry mix taper from west to east between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m., though far southeastern Wisconsin lingers with light snow the longest. Scattered flurries may persist into midday, but no additional accumulation is expected.
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation urged motorists to slow down, increase following distance, and use caution on untreated surfaces, especially during the height of the morning commute. Even where roads appear merely wet, thin ice can form quickly in shaded or elevated areas.
Conditions steadily improve by late morning as precipitation exits and road crews treat major corridors. Despite the improving trend, officials warned that early travel remains hazardous, particularly on ramps and less-traveled roads.
Drivers are encouraged to allow extra travel time and remain alert for rapidly changing conditions as winter weather briefly disrupts southeastern Wisconsin travel corridors Friday morning.
