La Crosse, WI – A major winter storm is expected to impact parts of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa beginning tonight and lasting into Monday morning, bringing a dangerous mix of freezing rain, sleet, heavy snow, and possible blizzard conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, the storm will unfold in two phases, creating significant travel hazards across the region.
Phase 1: Ice and Wintry Mix Tonight into Sunday
Precipitation will begin later today as light snow lifting northeast across the region, strengthening north of the Interstate 90 corridor this evening.
Areas near and along I-90 — including La Crosse, Winona, Rochester, and Tomah — could see a mix of rain, freezing rain, and sleet overnight into Sunday morning.
Forecasters warn freezing rain may produce up to a quarter inch of ice, which could create slippery roads and potential tree or power line damage, especially if winds increase.
Phase 2: Heavy Snow and Strong Winds Sunday into Monday
By late Sunday afternoon and evening, temperatures will drop and precipitation will change to widespread snow across the region.
Central Wisconsin appears most likely to receive the highest snowfall totals, with very high probabilities of at least 6 inches and strong chances for 12 inches or more in some locations.
At the same time, winds could increase to 60–80 mph in open areas, creating blizzard or near-blizzard conditions with blowing and drifting snow and whiteout visibility.
Travel Impacts Expected
Travel conditions could become dangerous from Sunday afternoon through early Monday, especially across central Wisconsin and areas north of I-90.
Even where snowfall totals are lower near the I-90 corridor, freezing rain and sleet could still create hazardous road conditions.
Forecasters urge residents to closely monitor forecast updates and prepare now, as small changes in the storm’s track could shift the heaviest snow or icing north or south.
