Winter Storm Snarls Traffic In North Central Wisconsin

A winter storm is expected to dump between 6 and 10 inches of snow over northern Wisconsin, snarling traffic and making simple commutes a challenge.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation reports most roads in the northern half of the state are snow covered, with Interstate-39 covered in ice south of Stevens Point.

In Wausau, the snow was coming down so hard that you had to clean your windshield after a quick stop at the drug store.

Judy Brodjeski said she was driving “very, very slowly, and probably staying home would be the best.”

Richard Kartes said the streets were like an obstacle course.

“Take it easy and treat everybody as a potential slide person right into you,” he said.

Jamie Potter was taking no chances.

“I have all-wheel drive,” she said, “so as long as I go slow, and watch the other cars, I think I’m OK. And I’m not driving on the highway.”

Sgt. Bryan Wrycha of the State Patrol in Wausau said people should stay off the roads if they can. Those who have to travel should carry an emergency kit, extra blankets and a fully charged cell phone.

“Slow down,” Wrycha said, “and give highway workers the space they need to clear the lanes.”

A winter storm warning is in effect until 10 p.m. Tuesday for much of north central Wisconsin.