A Winter Storm Watch for Southeast Wisconsin this weekend sparked a note of caution from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, in a news release issued Friday.
“The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) would like to remind motorists to be cautious if traveling in what could be hazardous conditions,” the DOT release states. “High winds and drifting snow are expected to make driving very difficult this weekend.”
The DOT reminder comes after the National Weather Service in Sullivan issued a Winter Storm Watch, effective from 4 p.m. Saturday until 12 a.m. Monday, when meteorologists estimate a snowfall of 6-10 inches.
“Hazardous travel conditions will develop Saturday night and continue into Sunday night due to the accumulating snow and reduced visibility,” the National Weather Service states.
“The snow will be dry and powdery. Southeast winds of 10 to 15 mph will create some blowing and drifting snow.”
For people planning to travel, the DOT encourages motorists to check the National Weather Service forecasts at weather.gov and use the state’s travel information service, 511 Wisconsin.
The 511 Wisconsin system accessible at www.511wi.gov includes winter road conditions, up-to-date travel information, live traffic cameras and alerts.
“Always put safety first, never access 511 information while driving,” the DOT states.
For areas of the state being impacted, the DOT advises against travel on Tuesday, unless absolutely necessary. If traveling, please use the following tips:
· Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights before driving.
· Go slow. Remember the posted speed limits are for dry pavement.
· Leave plenty of room for stopping.
· Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows.
· Use brakes carefully. Brake early. Brake correctly.
· Watch for slippery bridge decks, even when the rest of the pavement is in good condition.
· Don’t get overconfident in your 4×4 vehicle.
· Don’t use your cruise control in wintry conditions.