Strong storm brings snow, ice, rain and flooding
Difficult travel conditions possible
(MADISON) – A series of strong storm systems will move across Wisconsin through Thursday with heavy rain, ice and snow. This system will bring the risk of power outages, treacherous road conditions and possible flooding.
The National Weather Service is forecasting one to three inches of rain though Wednesday evening. A flood watch continues for central and southern Wisconsin. Freezing rain, ice and snow are possible north of Interstate 90-94 corridor. Up to ¼ of an inch of ice accumulation is possible in west central Wisconsin. Snow totals of up to six inches are possible north of the Interstate 90-94 corridor, one to three south.
Now is the time to get ready for the storm. Here are a few simple things you can do:
- Have an emergency winter weather survival kit in your vehicle. Your kit should include water, snack food such as energy bars or raisins, first aid kit and booster cables. If you have a cell phone make sure you have a power adapter you can plug into the lighter. You can find more tip kits on our website… http://readywisconsin.wi.gov
- Check the roads and take your time. Call 511 or go to www.511wi.gov for the latest road conditions across Wisconsin. Keep at least a half tank of gas in your vehicle in case of an emergency and let friends and family know where you are traveling to and when you should arrive. You may need to delay or cancel travel if conditions deteriorate.
- Get supplies for your home. Make sure your home emergency kit is stocked with food that can be stored and eaten without electricity, in case there is a power outage. Also, make sure you have extra water, flashlights with extra batteries and medications. For a complete list of kit items go to our website: http://readywisconsin.wi.gov/kit/GetKit.asp
- Watch rivers and streams. The ground is already saturated with frost four to five inches deep in the northern half of the state. That means the new precipitation may have no place to go. Keep a close watch on waterways in your area for possible flooding and be prepared to evacuate. If you encounter a flooded roadway: don’t drown, turn around.
- Stay informed. ReadyWisconsin will keep you posted on any emergencies that occur during the storm. Follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/readywisconsin) or Twitter (www.twitter.com/readywisconsin) for updates.
