For the City-Times

Governor Scott Walker has issued an executive order declaring a State of Emergency in preparation for the winter storm expected to impact Wisconsin on Thursday, February 20. 

Heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and strong winds are expected, and some areas of west central and northwest Wisconsin could receive more than 12 inches of snow, though the National Weather Service says the Stevens Point Area is expected to receive 3-5 inches of snow.

The executive order will ready Wisconsin Emergency Management, the Wisconsin National Guard, the Department of Transportation, the Department of Natural Resources, and the Wisconsin State Patrol.

“This executive order ensures we are prepared for this potentially dangerous winter storm which is expected to bring heavy snow and ice,” Governor Walker said.  “We don’t want to leave anything to chance when it comes to the safety of Wisconsin citizens.”

ReadyWisconsin and the Department of Transportation are teaming up to warn people about the upcoming storm and precautions you and your family should take to keep safe.

• Limit travel.  Depending on conditions in your area it may be safer to limit, delay, or cancel your travel on Thursday.
• If you must travel allow plenty of extra time for your trip.  Also keep at least a half tank of gas in your vehicle and inform friends and family of your travel plans and approximate arrival time.
• Check the roads before you travel.  The Wisconsin Department of Transportation advises travelers check road conditions before leaving home by calling 5-1-1 or visiting www.511wi.gov.
• Have an emergency winter weather survival kit in your vehicle.  Your kit should include water, snack food such as energy bars or raisins, a first aid kit, and booster cables.  If you have a cell phone make sure you have a power adapter.  You can find more kit tips at http://readywisconsin.wi.gov.
• Get supplies for your home. Make sure your home emergency kit is stocked with food that can be stored and prepared without electricity.  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.
• Stay informed. ReadyWisconsin will keep you posted on any emergencies that occur during the storm.  Follow ReadyWisconsin on Facebook (www.facebook.com/readywisconsin) or Twitter (www.twitter.com/readywisconsin) for updates.

A copy of Governor Walker’s executive order is attached.