Fresh Snow Blankets Northern Wisconsin

Families enjoy winter fun as schools close for snow days

Mar. 19, 2026 at 12:00am

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A late-winter storm brought heavy snowfall to northern Wisconsin over the weekend, with some areas receiving over 30 inches. Schools were closed on Friday and Monday due to the storms, but that didn't stop local residents like 7-year-old Jaycee Tygard from Montreal from playing in the fresh powder in Pence, Wisconsin on Saturday. The annual North Country Polar Plunge event also went on as planned, with attendees supporting regional hospice services.

Why it matters

Significant snowstorms can disrupt daily life, close schools, and challenge regional infrastructure, but also provide opportunities for winter recreation and community events. This storm highlights the resilience of northern communities that regularly deal with heavy snow.

The details

The Sunday storm that continued into Monday resulted in over 30 inches of snow in Wausau, Wisconsin, and a record 37.6 inches in Negaunee. Regional energy companies warned customers before the storm hit, and crews worked to restore power in some areas. Despite the challenging conditions, the annual North Country Polar Plunge event in Pence went on as planned, with attendees supporting local hospice services.

  • On Friday, area schools closed due to the storm.
  • On Saturday, 7-year-old Jaycee Tygard played in the fresh snow in Pence, Wisconsin.
  • On Sunday, the storm continued, resulting in over 30 inches of snow in some areas.
  • On Monday, area schools closed again due to the ongoing storm.

The players

Jaycee Tygard

A 7-year-old from Montreal who played in the fresh snow in Pence, Wisconsin on Saturday.

North Country Polar Plunge

An annual event in Pence, Wisconsin that went on as planned despite the heavy snowfall, with attendees supporting regional hospice services.

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What they’re saying

“For more photos of that event, see page 20.”

— Brenda Moseley, Photographer

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This late-winter storm showcased the resilience of northern communities that regularly deal with heavy snow, as residents continued to enjoy winter activities and support local events despite the challenging conditions.