A powerful winter storm sweeping across southeast Wisconsin has brought daily routines to a standstill, dumping heavy snow across the region and prompting officials to warn residents to stay off the roads. The National Weather Service maintained a Winter Storm Warning through Sunday evening, forecasting total snow accumulations reaching up to 14 inches in some communities.
Heavy, Wet Snow Creates Hazardous Conditions
The storm began making its presence felt Saturday afternoon and rapidly intensified overnight. Meteorologists described the snowfall as “heavy and moisture-laden,” the type known to cause widespread damage to trees, utility lines, and poorly plowed roads. The persistent bands of snow dramatically reduced visibility throughout Milwaukee and surrounding counties.
Local broadcasters elevated their coverage to a Weather Alert Day, emphasizing the heightened risk of power outages and stranded motorists. Highway cameras across the region showed slippery interstates, scattered spinouts, and plow trucks struggling to keep lanes clear.
Authorities repeatedly urged the public to stay home unless absolutely necessary, calling travel “extremely dangerous” due to blowing snow and untreated roadways.
Churches and County Offices Shut Doors
The storm’s severity led to swift action from religious organizations and local agencies. Many churches canceled their Sunday services, including multiple parishes in Madison and Jefferson. St. Maria Goretti and St. Bernard Catholic Churches announced overnight that weekend Masses would not be held, citing the risk of driving on snow-covered roads. St. John Lutheran Church and St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Jefferson issued similar advisories to their congregations.
The Diocese of Madison also authorized pastors to cancel Saturday evening Masses at their discretion, a rare move typically reserved for severe weather emergencies.
Government services across Washington County were similarly affected. The Administrative Campus, the Sheriff’s Office customer lobbies, and the Highway Department all suspended operations for the day. Every public library branch in the county remained closed as well. The Village of Richfield enacted a snow emergency order, blocking all street parking to allow plow crews to operate efficiently.
Officials Encourage Safety and Community Support
Emergency responders stressed that residents should prepare for prolonged cleanup efforts. Drivers forced to travel were advised to carry winter survival essentials, including blankets, food, and portable chargers. Plow operators expected to work throughout the day and into Monday to clear accumulated snow.
Local leaders also encouraged residents to check on neighbors, particularly older adults or individuals with limited mobility. The weight of the wet snow poses added danger for those shoveling, and officials warned the public to take breaks and avoid overexertion.
With temperatures expected to drop overnight, any slush remaining on sidewalks and roadways could freeze, creating a new wave of hazards to begin the week.
As Wisconsin continues to dig out, authorities say the most important step residents can take is to stay informed, stay indoors, and allow crews the space they need to restore safe travel conditions.
