Superior, Wisconsin – Roads across northwest Wisconsin could become impassable within hours as ice rapidly coats highways starting around 7 p.m. Friday, setting up dangerous overnight conditions through the Saturday morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, an Ice Storm Warning remains in effect for Douglas, Bayfield, Ashland, Iron, Burnett, Washburn, Sawyer, and Price counties from 7 p.m. Friday until 10 a.m. Saturday. Ice accumulation could reach up to 0.5 inches, with an additional 2 inches of snow and sleet.
Communities including Superior, Ashland, Hayward, Spooner, and Phillips are expected to see the heaviest icing Friday night. Bridges and untreated roads, including stretches of U.S. Highway 2 and Highway 53, may glaze over quickly, increasing crash risk. Officials warn tree limbs could snap under ice weight, raising the chances of widespread power outages affecting thousands.
Travel is strongly discouraged overnight. If driving is unavoidable, keep emergency supplies in your vehicle, including food, water, and a flashlight. Wisconsin DOT urges residents to check 511 before heading out.
The most severe icing is expected before sunrise Saturday, with conditions slowly improving after 10 a.m., though additional advisories may follow.
