Fresh snow covers a road in Sawyer Co. (PHOTO: Mike Fadness)
Much of northern and central Wisconsin was buried under fresh snow fall Wednesday, the result of a winter storm system which brought a foot or more wet heavy snow to some locales. The storm is being blamed for the collapse of a broadcast tower in Eau Claire County Tuesday night, which has taken a television station and radio station off the air. The 2000 foot tall tower, built in 1966, is located in the rural town of Fairchild. No one was hurt and no other structures were damaged. WEAU TV and WAXX radio in Eau Claire both transmit from the massive tower. Both are broadcasting on alternate frequencies today until an alternative can be set up. The tower collapsed amid heavy ice buildup and high winds. It is unknown at this time when repairs can be made.
In the news room at radio station WJMC in Rice Lake, Bob Rogers reported a foot of snow on the ground at mid morning, with strong gusty winds making for difficult travel. Schools across northwestern Wisconsin were forced to cancel classes, and many other events have also been canceled. “Things are pretty well shut down,” Rogers said. As for how long the snow sticks around, the forecast indicates temperatures warm enough to melt it won’t return until this time next week.
WAYY’s Dan Lea contributed to this report