Black River Falls, Wisconsin – Travel across western Wisconsin could become impossible overnight as a dangerous winter storm moves in by 7 p.m. Saturday, bringing heavy snow, ice, and eventually blizzard conditions that will last into early Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, a Winter Storm Warning begins at 7 p.m. Saturday for Taylor, Clark, Buffalo, Trempealeau, and Jackson counties. The storm will initially bring mixed precipitation before transitioning to heavy snow. A Blizzard Warning then takes effect at 10 a.m. Sunday and continues until 7 a.m. Monday as winds strengthen.
Snow totals south of Interstate 94 are expected to reach 10 to 18 inches, while areas north of I-94 could see 18 to 36 inches. Winds gusting up to 45 mph Sunday will produce intense blowing and drifting snow with visibility frequently dropping below a quarter mile.
Cities including Medford, Neillsville, Black River Falls, Arcadia, Whitehall, and Alma are expected to see the heaviest impacts. Major routes such as Interstate 94 and Highway 54 could quickly become snow-covered and impassable as snowfall rates increase and strong winds develop.
Officials warn that travel may become impossible for extended periods, especially Sunday afternoon into Sunday night. Heavy snow, ice accumulation, and powerful wind gusts could also bring down tree branches and cause scattered power outages.
Residents are urged to complete travel before conditions deteriorate and prepare emergency kits if driving is unavoidable. Blizzard conditions may persist through early Monday morning as the storm continues to impact western Wisconsin.
