La Crosse, Wisconsin – Drivers in central Wisconsin could face rapidly deteriorating road conditions late Thursday night as strengthening winds whip falling snow into dangerous blowing and drifting.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, a Winter Storm Warning will take effect at 7 p.m. Thursday for Taylor County and remain in place until 1 p.m. Friday. Snow totals between 2 and 6 inches are expected, while wind gusts could reach 45 mph by Friday morning.
The strongest winds will develop overnight into early Friday, especially in open and rural areas where blowing snow may significantly reduce visibility. Roads around Medford and along major corridors such as Highway 13 and Highway 64 could become slick and hazardous during the Friday morning commute.
Across central Wisconsin, snowfall will generally increase north of Highway 29 while lighter accumulations occur farther south. Strong winds may also bring down tree branches in some areas.
Officials urge drivers to slow down and allow extra travel time as the storm moves through. Anyone traveling overnight or early Friday should carry a winter emergency kit including food, water, blankets, and a flashlight.
Light snow and blowing snow may linger through Friday morning before winds gradually weaken during the afternoon. Additional advisories may be issued if conditions worsen across northern Wisconsin.
