Winter storm preparations underway, possible power outages expected across Southeastern Wisconsin

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Preparations for an anticipated winter storm are already underway.

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Milwaukee has issued a winter storm watch for all of the area starting Thursday and going into Saturday morning. The potential for major snow and travel issues continues to go up, especially late Thursday night through Friday.

We Energies, a local electric utility company, is gearing up to deal with potential power outages across Wisconsin. 

"Blowing wind can bring down trees and branches into our equipment, bringing our wires down and our poles down," We Energies spokesperson Amy Jahns said.

Jahns said the utility is watching the forecast closely and calling in crews to work through the holiday weekend if necessary.

Power outages can be reported on its website, but Jahns asks for patience as the utility won't send crews out in dangerous conditions. 

"We want to make sure they can safely get to the outages to repair them, but we also know our customers depend on us," Jahns said. 

Experts advise putting together emergency kits in case of potential outages. 

"Think about what you might need, make sure you have things in working order and make sure you're using them properly," American Red Cross of Wisconsin Communications Director Justin Kern said. 

Kits should include food, water, flashlights, blankets, radios, and backup power sources for cellphones.

Experts suggest not traveling during the worst of the storm but also recommend keeping an emergency kit in the car.

A list of extreme weather shelters can be found on 211, Wisconsin's website.

"Lots of things to think about, lots of ways to still stay prepared, get yourself ready for whatever this next round of winter brings," Kern said.

Stores are also expecting to see people stock up on outdoor winter weather equipment this week.

"Normally, the first big snowfall of the year we have a mad rush for salt and shovels, snowblowers for people that weren't already prepared," Bliffert Lumber and Hardware Manager Ken Converse said. 

When clearing snow, experts suggest taking frequent breaks indoors to prevent hypothermia and other health risks.