Storm slated for 4 PM arrival comes early, caution advised for all travel

City Times Staff 

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has issued a travel advisory for Central Wisconsin, in the fact of a winter storm warning which hit the Stevens Point area almost two hours before expected on Monday.

In a statement from WisDOT, motorists are advised to refrain from travel for the remainder of Monday unless “absolutely necessary”.

White-out conditions are already being reported across the area, according to the WisDOT statement.

“As of late [Monday] morning, there have been 165 incidents, which is a 166 percent increase to a comparable Monday in December,” the statement reads in part.

Up to 11 inches of snow is expected across the area, to include high winds and blizzard-like conditions, which are expected to continue through this evening and in some areas tomorrow morning. City and county road crews had been pre-treating some roadways with a salt solution over the weekend.

WisDOT advises against travel for the remainder of the day 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.

Traffic alerts and road conditions are available on the 511 Wisconsin smartphone app or by following @511WI on Twitter. Travel information can also be accessed at www.511wi.gov.