Wisconsin residents, get ready—a major winter storm is set to arrive on Friday, bringing heavy snowfall, slick roads, and dangerous travel conditions. If you have plans, you might want to rethink them because the afternoon and evening commute could be a complete mess.
Meteorologists are warning that this storm won’t be just a light dusting—it could dump 6 to 9 inches of snow across central and east-central Wisconsin, with some areas seeing even more due to lake-effect snow. If you’re not a fan of driving on snow-covered roads, Friday might be a good day to work from home or stay put.
When the Snow Will Hit and How Much We’re Getting
The first flakes will start falling early Friday morning, but the real trouble begins in the afternoon. Snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour could make it nearly impossible for plows to keep up, and by the time the evening rush hour hits, roads will be completely covered in snow and ice.
The heaviest snow is expected between noon and 8 p.m., meaning that if you have evening plans, you may want to reschedule. The system should begin to taper off overnight, but the damage will already be done—expect a snowy, slow-moving start to your Saturday morning.
Driving Could Be a Nightmare—Here’s What You Should Do
Wisconsin drivers are used to snow, but this storm could make things especially dangerous. If you absolutely must travel, here’s what you should do:
- Take it slow—snow-covered roads mean braking distances are much longer.
- Keep an emergency kit in your car with a blanket, flashlight, snacks, and extra gloves.
- Fill up your gas tank in case you get stuck or have to idle in traffic.
- Stay off the roads if possible—let the plows do their job.
How to Prepare at Home Before the Storm Hits
With a storm like this, a little preparation goes a long way. Here’s what you can do now before the snow starts falling:
- Stock up on groceries and essentials—nobody wants to make a last-minute grocery run in a snowstorm.
- Check your heating system to make sure it’s working properly, especially since cold temperatures will follow the storm.
- Prepare for possible power outages—heavy snow and wind could bring down power lines, so have flashlights, batteries, and blankets handy.
- Shovel early and often—don’t wait for a foot of snow to pile up before grabbing your shovel.
What to Expect After the Storm
Just because the snow stops doesn’t mean the danger is over. Winds will pick up, causing blowing and drifting snow, which could make roads just as hazardous on Saturday morning. And with temperatures dropping, anything left on the roads will freeze overnight, leading to black ice.
The bottom line? Even after the snow ends, you’ll want to take it easy on the roads and allow extra time to get where you need to go.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t just another minor snowfall—this storm is going to pack a punch. Whether you’re commuting, running errands, or just planning your weekend, it’s best to prepare now. Charge your devices, grab some extra food, and get your winter gear ready—Friday is going to be rough.