WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) — A storm system that’s already dumped several inches of snow on the Dakotas and Minnesota is making its way to Central Wisconsin next.
Forecasters are calling for between 6-9 inches of snow in the area beginning Sunday morning. The snowfall is expected to taper off by early evening, but in between the snow could come down at a rate of one to two inches per hour.
The system has already brought difficult travel conditions to both Interstate 90 and 94 near La Crosse and Eau Claire, respectively. Closer to home travel is not advised along Highway 29 between Abbotsford and Wittenbrg and on Highway 51 from Wausau to Merrill. Snow-covered roadways are being reported in most areas south of Wausau.
Sheriff’s officials in Marathon County wasted no time in declaring a county-wide tow ban, meaning no vehicles that end up in the ditch along the road will be towed out unless it is determined to be a public safety issue. Cars can be towed out once officials determine that it is safe to do so.
Specifically, several accidents have been reported along US 51 near County Road K, closing the left southbound lane. Drivers are being asked to avoid that area for the next few hours.
In response to the system, several area municipalities have declared snow emergencies for Sunday night. Those include Plover, Wisconsin Rapids, Wausau, and Marshfield.
Most of those are set to expire by mid-morning on Monday except for Plover, which will continue theirs until 3 PM Monday.
Snow emergencies prohibit drivers from parking on city streets while crews work to remove snow and ice. Anyone who does park on the street risks a fine and the expenses associated with having their vehicle towed.
