Weekend Winter Storm Targets Wisconsin

WAUSAU, Wis. (CIVIC MEDIA) – Big accumulations are on the way after the state is around 4 snow storms shy of where we should be in winter snow totals.

It’s like last year almost wanted to repeat itself, mimicking minimal snowfall as systems pass. On average, the state is around 20″ shy of it’s usual average snowfall. So the storm on the way, is much needed.

Towns up north never opened their snowmobile trails last winter, and are anxiously awaiting the arrival of base buildable snow. Oneida county snowmobile trails are scheduled to open Friday morning, with more counties to follow after this storm on Saturday.

Here’s what you need to know…

Snow will start to move into northwest areas of the state around midnight Friday night. As we are sound asleep overnight, it’ll spread statewide. It’ll be an all day event on Saturday. With the snow heavy at times, laying down a good 4 to 7″ in the Winter Storm Watch areas. This includes the towns of Rice Lake, Eau Claire, Wausau, Wisconsin Rapids, Appleton and Green Bay.

On the northern edge, 3 to 5″ is expected to accumulate into Superior, Hayward, Rhinelander, Minocqua and Hurley.

Along the southern stateline in areas like Janesville and Madison, it’s looking like a half inch to a trace or so.

There could also be freezing drizzle near Racine and Kenosha in the afternoon as temperatures flirt with the freezing mark. Beware of icy spots.

Otherwise, temperatures across the state will be in the teens to 20s. This will support a lighter and fluffier snow type. Which is also known to blow and drift around easier. It’s best for making snow angels, too. While it’ll likely not be packable far north, some of it may stick for some snowmen and snowball fights further south.

When clearing the snow, be sure to take frequent breaks. Don’t over exert yourself because the cold temperatures are already restricting blood flow. Shovel in shifts or ask a neighbor or friend to help. Keep in mind that salt doesn’t work well when temperatures are below 15 degrees.

The sun will shine again on Sunday for the Superbowl. With the snow in our rearview mirrors, temperatures will be in the mid teens to mid 20s… with a colder week ahead.