Rhinelander, WI – A strengthening Fall system will spread steady snow across the Northwoods on Saturday, creating hazardous travel from late morning through Saturday night as the season’s most impactful snowfall yet settles in.
According to the National Weather Service Green Bay office, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 8 a.m. Saturday to 6 a.m. Sunday for Oneida, Forest, Florence, Lincoln, Langlade, and northern Oconto counties. Totals of 3 to 5 inches are expected, with the heaviest snowfall arriving Saturday afternoon and evening. Visibility may drop quickly at times, especially on wooded curves and open stretches north of Antigo and west toward Tomahawk.
According to WisDOT, snow-covered travel is likely along US-8, US-45, and WI-47, with hunters and post-holiday travelers urged to plan for slick conditions. Crews advise slower speeds on bridges, which may ice earlier than main pavement. Drivers should check 511 for updates and allow extra time for routes into rural forests where plow frequency is lower.
According to emergency managers in Oneida and Forest counties, low visibility and fast accumulation could affect late-day hunting traffic and cabin access roads. Residents should charge phones, stock vehicles with winter kits, and clear porches and steps frequently to prevent refreezing. Local airports in Rhinelander and Eagle River may experience minor delays during heavier bands.
Snow will taper before sunrise Sunday, but temperatures in the teens and 20s will keep many surfaces icy into the early morning hours.
