Travel not advised for impacted areas

 For Antigo Times

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) would like to remind motorists to be cautious if traveling in what could be hazardous conditions. Dangerous wind chills, and white-out conditions in open areas, along with the snow and ice covered roads will continue to make driving very difficult.

As of late this (Monday) morning, there have been 165 incidents, which is a 166 percent increase to a comparable Monday in December.

While the Southeast and Southwest regions have received the most snow, the remaining three regions are starting to see it in their southern counties. High winds and blizzard-like conditions are expected to continue through this evening and in some areastomorrow morning. Snow removal resources are heavily engaged across all regions, as roads have been pretreated.

For areas of the state being impacted, WisDOT advises against travel for the remainder of the day, unless absolutely necessary. If traveling, please use the following tips:

• Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights before driving.
• Go slow. Remember the posted speed limits are for dry pavement.
• Leave plenty of room for stopping.
• Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows.
• Use brakes carefully.  Brake early. Brake correctly.
• Watch for slippery bridge decks, even when the rest of the pavement is in good condition.
• Don’t get overconfident in your 4×4 vehicle.
• Don’t use your cruise control in wintry conditions.

Receive traffic alerts and view road conditions on the 511 Wisconsin smartphone app or by following @511WI on Twitter. Travel information can also be accessed at www.511wi.gov.  Always putting safety first, never access 511 information while driving.