Wausau, WI – Early morning travel across central Wisconsin is expected to turn slippery on Tuesday as a Winter Weather Advisory calls for 1 to 4 inches of wet snow from 2 a.m. to noon, according to details shared by the National Weather Service in Green Bay. Forecasters warn that the timing of the storm may create difficult conditions during the busiest hours of the morning commute.
The advisory covers Wood, Portage, Waupaca, and Waushara counties, including communities such as Marshfield, Wisconsin Rapids, Stevens Point, Plover, Waupaca, and Wautoma. Wet, heavy snow is expected to develop overnight and intensify toward sunrise, with the potential for locally higher totals in areas where snowfall bands become more persistent.
Heaviest Snow Expected During Peak Travel Hours
The NWS notes that the most impactful period will occur between 4 a.m. and 9 a.m., when snow rates could briefly increase enough to coat untreated and secondary roadways. With temperatures hovering near the freezing mark, even light snowfall can quickly accumulate and create hazardous, slushy conditions.
Roads most likely to become slick include:
- Bridges and overpasses
- Rural routes with less frequent treatment
Forecasters emphasize that quick slush buildup may reduce traction and make braking more difficult.
Impact on Tuesday Morning Commute
Travelers heading out early should be prepared for reduced visibility, slippery roads, and extra time needed to clear heavy, wet snow from vehicles. The NWS warns that the commute may be slow-moving, especially in areas where snow falls steadily for several hours before sunrise.
A statement from the National Weather Service Green Bay notes:
“Even a modest amount of wet snow can create challenging travel conditions when temperatures are near freezing.”
Residents are urged to drive slower, leave additional space between vehicles, and be cautious at intersections where slush can make stopping unpredictable.
Snow Tapers Late Morning but Slick Spots Linger
Snowfall is expected to gradually diminish by late Tuesday morning, with most areas seeing improvement around midday. However, slick spots may persist through early afternoon in shaded areas and on less-traveled roads.
Road crews are expected to work through the morning to treat surfaces, though wet snow may initially cover treated roads before conditions improve.
Keeping Updated on Travel and Weather Conditions
Travelers can check 511 Wisconsin for real-time road conditions. Additional updates from the National Weather Service will help residents monitor changes in snowfall timing or intensity as the advisory continues through noon.
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