Mixed precipitation expected in next winter storm

Winter storm watch, advisories issued

MADISON, Wis. — Forecasters are watching the development of a winter storm that could cause more problems for southern Wisconsin Thursday.

News 3 meteorologist Haddie McLean said a strong late winter storm will move from Kansas to northeast Wisconsin from late Wednesday night through Thursday night.

Winter weather advisories will go into effect at 3 a.m. for southern Wisconsin as a mixture of precipitation develops. Freezing rain, sleet and snow will be possible through the morning commute.

The mixed precipitation will change over to all rain after 9 a.m. as warmer air is pulled northward with this storm system.

Winter storm watches and warnings have been issued for areas north and west of Dane County for Thursday and Thursday night as strong winds and snow combine to reduce visibilities to near zero at times. The heaviest accumulations will be in western Wisconsin, where more than 6 inches of snow is possible.  In addition, wind gusts to 40 mph will cause blowing and drifting snow. 

At this point, McLean said only light snowfall accumulations are expected across south-central Wisconsin. However, if the storm track shifts to the east, southern Wisconsin could receive more snow.