As the chill of winter begins to settle in, residents of southeast Wisconsin are bracing themselves for the season's first significant snowfall. According to the National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan, an overcast sky with a high near 45 degrees is predicted today. However, the weather is set to take a turn with a 40% chance of rain this afternoon, morphing into snow showers by nightfall with a 50% chance of precipitation.
Commuters are to expect potentially hazardous conditions come Thursday morning, as "wet snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 2 and 4 inches" are in the forecast, as per the Winter Weather Advisory issued by the National Weather Service. The advisory warns to "plan on reduced visibility and slippery road conditions due to slushy accumulations" which are likely going to effect the morning commute. Indeed, bands of moderate to heavy snowfall are anticipated to affect travel on Thursday. The weather is expected to shift sporadically from snow to rain and back again as temperatures hover around the freezing mark, only to gradually transition to all rain as the day progresses.
Preparatory measures have been suggested by the National Weather Service, advising travelers to "slow down and use caution while traveling." Additionally, the office has provided information on how to obtain the latest road conditions, urging residents to call the dedicated helpline at 5 1 1 for updates. Visibility issues and slushy roads have become a focal point in warnings, with definite impacts on the Thursday morning travel expected.
Looking ahead, the National Weather Service forecasts show a mix of rain and snow showers before 1am tonight, with snow showers potentially following after 5am. Visibility is projected to be 10 miles, and with wind chills at 38 degrees Fahrenheit, the gusty conditions—with expected winds of 10 to 15 mph and gusts as high as 30 mph—could quickly to turn wet and snowy roads into treacherous paths. While the Hazardous Weather Outlook does not call for spotter activation, snowfall measurements from local residents come Thursday morning would be appreciated and assist in evaluating the event's severity.
The volatile weather pattern is expected to stay with Wisconsinites through the week, with a continued chance of showers and a mix of cloudy and partly sunny skies. Residents should remain alert and monitor the weather updates provided by the National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan for any changes to forecasts or weather advisories.
