Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Snow and blowing snow will impact travel Wednesday afternoon and evening before dangerous cold grips Wisconsin through Saturday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee, another round of snow is expected to develop across southern and eastern Wisconsin Wednesday afternoon, with snowfall beginning between 3 and 5 p.m. west of Madison and 4 to 6 p.m. near Milwaukee and the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Snowfall totals are forecast to range from a dusting to around 1 inch, with isolated amounts near 2 inches southwest of Madison. While totals are modest, west wind gusts of 30 to 35 mph will create blowing and drifting snow, particularly on north-south roadways and open areas. Snowfall rates may briefly reach 0.25 to 0.5 inches per hour during the evening.
The most significant impacts are expected during the 4 to 10 p.m. commute, when slick roads and reduced visibility could slow traffic on major routes including I-94, I-43, I-41, and U.S. 45.
Following the snow, an Extreme Cold Watch is in effect from Thursday night through late Saturday morning. Forecast wind chills are expected to plunge between -30 and -40 degrees, with the coldest conditions Friday morning.
National Weather Service officials warn that exposed skin can develop frostbite in as little as 10 minutes under these conditions. Residents are urged to limit time outdoors, dress in layers, and ensure vehicles are winter-ready.
Commuters, students, and overnight workers should prepare for rapidly deteriorating conditions late Thursday and Friday morning.
