Blizzard Warning – No Travel Advised

The National Weather Service has issued a blizzard warning for portions of northeast Wisconsin that includes Door County from 3 pm Friday, Jan. 12 to noon Saturday, Jan. 13. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) strongly advises drivers to adjust travel plans during this time due to blizzard conditions and reduced or zero visibility at times. Motorists should monitor local forecasts and check 511wi.gov for winter road conditions and view live traffic camera videos along their route.

Wind gusts are forecast to be up to 45 miles per hour and WILL create blizzard conditions, limiting visibility on the roads even when snow is not falling. Sustained winds can make driving difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles like trucks, which are at risk of losing control or tipping over in windy conditions. Drivers should be aware when traveling near larger vehicles and keep a safe distance.

Conditions may become too challenging for tow companies to assist stranded or disabled vehicles, and local authorities may issue tow bans in various counties. Please monitor your local municipality or county emergency management department messages for locations of tow bans, such as Door County’s Emergency Management Facebook page. With subzero windchills expected, becoming stranded on the highway could turn dangerous for motorists.

If you must travel during the storm, WisDOT offers the following winter driving tips:

• Clear snow and ice from vehicles before traveling.
• Snow means slow. Allow extra travel time, following distance, and reduce your speed during winter conditions.
• Be cautious on bridges, overpasses, and entrance and exit ramps.
• Don’t be overconfident in four-wheel or all-wheel-drive vehicles. All vehicles require additional time and distance to stop in adverse conditions.
• Avoid using cruise control in winter conditions.
• Buckle up and put your phone down while driving. Every trip, every time.
• Move over or slow down for stopped emergency vehicles.
• In case of a crash or slide off, stay in the vehicle, turn on the hazards, call 911 and move vehicle(s) out of traffic if possible.