As the winter season approaches, Portage County officials want to remind travelers and in-town drivers of the dangers of winter driving conditions.

Though temperatures generally will hang between 30 and 37 degrees over the next 10 days or so as a high, according to several different forecasts, snow and flurries are predicted by Friday, Dec. 1, continuing Saturday, Dec. 2, and then show showers predicted Tuesday, Dec. 5.

Already this season, Portage County has seen dustings and bit of precipitation. To date, the area has seen nearly 1.5 inches of snow, according to Plover NWS Coop, www.ploverweather.com.

Forecasts containing rain – Friday, Nov. 24, calls for a passing shower – followed by lows in the high teens and low 20s could make for some slick roads.

The Portage County Highway Department and Sheriff’s Office will be out in full force this winter season doing their part to keep the roads safe, but there also are a number of tips drivers can keep in mind that can play a crucial role in their safety as well as other drivers and highway and road workers.

“Our goal is to make the state and county roadway system as safe as possible during these winter events, but every storm brings different resource and environmental challenges,” said Portage County Highway Commissioner Nathan Check.

“The traveling public must modify their driving practices to adapt to the winter road conditions in order to keep themselves and everyone around them safe,” he said. “Please reduce your speeds and give our workers the room that they need to provide safe winter driving conditions.”

Some winter driving tips:

– Plan ahead and give extra time when traveling in adverse weather conditions. Wisconsin weather can be unpredictable. Always wear a seatbelt.

To read the rest of the story, pick up a copy of the Portage County Gazette at one of the many newsstands in the area, including gas stations and grocery stores. Or subscribe at shopmmclocal.com/product/portage-county-gazette/ to have weekly copies delivered by mail.

For more information or to subscribe over the phone, call 715-343-8045.