First winter storm in weeks set to arrive Wednesday

 

So far this winter hasn't been very "wintry" at all, at least when it comes to snow. We nickel and dimed our way through light snows during January and the first week of February. But our lack of snow may turn a corner this week with multiple chances for snow. So far this season we've only picked up just over a foot of snowfall which is much less than last year's 21" and now over 20" below the season average of 32.5".

A few flakes and flurries have been flying around Tuesday morning but won't amount to more than a dusting or few tenths of an inch. A few snowflakes could also fly Tuesday night into Wednesday morning but the best time for accumulating snowfall arrives during the mid-morning hours of Wednesday through Wednesday night. Wednesday afternoon and early evening will likely see the heaviest snow.

A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for most of southeast Wisconsin for the snowfall on Wednesday. Currently Fond du Lac and Dodge County are not included in the Watch which starts at 9 AM Wednesday through 3 AM Thursday. The Watch will likely be upgraded to a Winter Weather Advisory for northern and western counties and a Winter Storm Warning for lakeside and southern counties later Tuesday. 

Highest totals for snow on Wednesday will likely happen in lakeside communities where a NE wind will allow some lake enhanced snow to develop. Right now southern and lakeside communities could get 5-7" but northern and western could get 2-5". There is some uncertainty with the lake enhancement and the fluffy nature of the snow may allow it to pile up easily. 

The snow with the impact on the roads will be the main threat with this next storm. Since this will be a fluffy snow and with a bit of a breeze we likely see some blowing snow and reduced visibility. Cold air will not be a big issue with the storm with highs in the upper 20s Wednesday.

Download the CBS 58 Ready Weather app to track the snow!