La Crosse, Wisconsin – Whiteout conditions and powerful wind gusts are hammering southwest Wisconsin early Monday, creating dangerous travel conditions as blowing snow sweeps across highways during the morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, a Blizzard Warning remains in effect until 1 p.m. Monday for La Crosse, Monroe, Vernon, Juneau, Adams, Crawford, Grant, and Richland counties. Snow totals are expected to increase by 1 to 4 inches, while wind gusts could reach 45 mph, producing widespread blowing and drifting snow.
Cities including La Crosse, Sparta, Tomah, Viroqua, Prairie du Chien, Platteville, and Richland Center are seeing rapidly changing visibility early Monday. Travel along Interstate 90, U.S. Highway 14, and Highway 61 could become especially hazardous as wind-driven snow covers plowed lanes and reduces visibility to near zero in open areas.
In parts of southeast Minnesota and northeast Iowa, the blizzard is expected to ease around 7 a.m. Monday, transitioning to a Winter Weather Advisory through 10 a.m. as winds remain strong and drifting snow continues.
Emergency managers urge residents to avoid non-essential travel until winds weaken. If travel cannot be postponed, drivers should carry a winter survival kit, blankets, and a fully charged phone. Anyone stranded should remain with their vehicle and wait for help.
Conditions should slowly improve after midday Monday, though drifting snow may continue to affect rural roads across the region. Additional travel advisories could be issued if visibility remains poor.
