With an early spring storm dumping a foot or more of wet, heavy snow across much of the state, Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker has declared a State of Emergency.
“This storm is bringing heavy snow, strong winds, and potential blizzard conditions across the state tonight,” Walker said in a statement released by his office. “It may cause dangerous drifting and blowing snow as well as limited visibility on roads and highways, causing treacherous driving conditions. As a precautionary measure, we want to ensure all state resources are available and ready, if needed. We urge all Wisconsinites to be cautious of the weather conditions and remain safe while outside or driving.”
Walker’s order calls to active duty whatever Wisconsin National Guard personnel may be deemed necessary and directs all state agencies to assist in any response or recovery efforts.
The National Weather Service is projecting that snowfall rates of 1″ to 3″ per hour are likely overnight, along a corridor from La Crosse to Green Bay. That snow, accompanied by strong winds gusts up to 30 miles an hour, will make for hazardous driving conditions across much of central Wisconsin, and a messy morning commute on Thursday.