Medford, Wisconsin – Travel along and north of Interstate 90 could become treacherous overnight as freezing rain coats roads and power lines, with conditions worsening before the Thursday morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from midnight tonight through noon Thursday for Taylor and Clark counties. Ice accumulations between 0.2 and 0.4 inches are expected, along with up to 1 inch of snow and sleet. Wind gusts could reach 35 mph, increasing the risk of falling branches and power outages.
Communities including Medford and Neillsville will see precipitation begin as a mix of snow and sleet late tonight before transitioning to freezing rain overnight. Ice will continue to build through Thursday morning, especially on untreated roads and elevated surfaces like bridges and overpasses.
Key routes, including stretches near Highway 13 and local roads feeding into the I-90 corridor, may become slick and hazardous. Visibility could also drop as precipitation intensifies before sunrise.
Drivers are urged to delay travel if possible and carry emergency supplies if heading out. Residents should prepare for potential outages by charging devices and securing alternative heat sources.
Conditions are expected to improve Thursday afternoon as temperatures rise above freezing, but warnings remain in effect through midday.
