Residents of Southeast Wisconsin are bracing for significant snowfall as the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Weather Advisory valid from noon Thursday until noon Friday. This advisory affects areas within Milwaukee and Waukesha counties, including the cities of Waukesha, Brookfield, Milwaukee, and New Berlin, where snow accumulations are predicted to range between 3 to 5 inches.
The snowfall is expected to start primarily after 9 AM Thursday, creating potentially hazardous conditions for commuters throughout the day. With about an 80% chance of precipitation and new daytime snow accumulation around one inch, it’s important for drivers to heed warnings and exercise caution during travels.
Overnight, conditions are projected to worsen, with the NWS indicating another one to three inches of snow could accumulate as the storm shifts southeast. Wind speeds will also increase, blowing at 5 to 10 mph, transforming the roadways to slick and treacherous surfaces, particularly for those traveling during Thursday evening and Friday morning.
From early morning until late afternoon, snow is expected to blanket the region as the system travels across Southeast Wisconsin, with the heaviest snow expected to impact the local areas after 5 PM and lasting until around 5 AM Friday. During this peak period, motorists should be especially aware of deteriorated conditions, including reduced visibility and snow-covered roads. The NWS urges, "Plan on slippery road conditions" and advises keeping extra time for any travel during this period.
The current forecast suggests higher snow accumulations are expected north of Milwaukee. Areas such as Sheboygan County have the potential to receive six inches or more due to lake effect snow, as warmer lake temperatures can lead to heavier, wetter snowfall.
By Friday, snow is expected to begin tapering off, with additional light snow or flurries possible, especially morning lakeside. The snow accumulation chart predicts 2-4 inches for the Milwaukee metropolitan area, but areas close to Lake Michigan could receive higher totals due to lake enhancement.
Specific snow totals have already started to pour in, with reports indicating variances across the region. Some locations north of Milwaukee are reporting 2.5 inches already with steady snowfall continuing through the day. Meanwhile, Racine and Kenosha counties were newly included under the advisory, which indicates the widespread nature of this snowy system.
Weather forecasts also note the continuing hazardous conditions are likely to extend through the Friday morning commute with potentially 100% chance of precipitation tonight. Commuters are advised to check road conditions prior to travel, as any unprepared driver may encounter significant challenges.
Looking at the full forecast, Friday is expected to bring cloudy skies with temperatures falling to around 26°F by the afternoon. Winds will shift from northeast and gusts may reach up to 15 mph, adding to the cold feeling outside. The weekend will usher more chilling weather, with lows dipping to around 14°F, emphasizing the reality of winter weather conditions.
The Milwaukee area may see another round of snow on Monday, potentially mixed with rain. Such changes highlight the unpredictability of winter's impact on travel plans and local lifestyles, and the community is urged to stay vigilant. Citizens are reminded to keep updated with weather apps and local forecasts to bear the full brunt of the winter storms.
For those wishing to stay informed about traffic and commute conditions during winter, calling 511 or checking local news outlets can be beneficial. The NWS also encourages residents to keep emergency supplies and essentials ready should travel become necessary during these winter storms.
Residents across Southeast Wisconsin face challenging prospects as snow continues to accumulate. The impacts of this winter weather are set to create stormy travel conditions and potentially disrupt plans for many.
