Madison, WI – As temperatures begin to fall across Wisconsin, state agencies are urging residents to prepare now for the coming cold season. Winter Weather Awareness Week runs Nov. 17–21, offering guidance on staying safe as snow, ice, and freezing temperatures return.
According to Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator Greg Engle, winter conditions can shift quickly and catch people off guard. Engle said even simple preparation can “make all the difference” for families navigating severe weather.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, cold-related illnesses remain a significant threat. During the 2024–25 winter season, the state saw 96 cold-related deaths, 1,381 EMS responses, 1,433 emergency department visits and 400 hospitalizations tied to hypothermia, frostbite, and cold exposure.
State Health Officer Paula Tran said emergency rooms begin seeing increases in cold-related injuries as soon as temperatures drop. She encouraged residents to prepare home emergency kits with food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and weather radios. Those facing housing challenges can call 211 for assistance.
Winter roads also pose serious risks. Preliminary data from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation shows 31 people were killed and 2,054 injured in winter road-condition crashes from October 2024 to May 2025. State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan urged drivers to check 511, slow down, stay alert, and keep vehicles stocked with blankets, snacks, shovels, jumper cables, and sand.
Officials also recommend winterizing homes by servicing furnaces, sealing drafts, testing carbon monoxide detectors, and keeping space heaters away from flammable materials.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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