Historic Snowstorm Dumps Over 30 Inches in Shawano

The storm brought record-breaking snowfall totals to Northeast Wisconsin

Mar. 17, 2026 at 4:04pm

A powerful winter storm dumped over 33 inches of snow in Shawano, Wisconsin over the weekend, setting a new record for the region. The National Weather Service reported that the storm featured lighter, powdery snow at times, but strong winds made conditions extremely dangerous.

Why it matters

This historic snowstorm is one of the largest on record for Northeast Wisconsin, surpassing even the notorious April 2018 blizzard. The extreme snowfall has caused major disruptions and cleanup efforts across the region.

The details

Meteorologist Gus Kaiser with the National Weather Service in Green Bay said Shawano was among the hardest hit areas, recording 33 inches of snow - well above the previous record of 29.8 inches set in 2018. While the 2018 storm brought heavier, wetter snow that caused more structural damage, this weekend's storm featured lighter, more powdery snow at times. However, stronger winds exceeding 50 mph made conditions even more dangerous.

  • This past weekend's snowstorm occurred on March 17, 2026.

The players

Gus Kaiser

A meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Green Bay.

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What they’re saying

“While the 2018 storm brought heavier, wetter snow that caused more structural damage, this weekend's storm featured lighter, more powdery snow at times.”

— Gus Kaiser, Meteorologist

What’s next

Officials continue to urge caution as cleanup efforts remain underway following the historic snowfall.

The takeaway

This record-breaking snowstorm is a stark reminder of the extreme weather events that can impact the region, and the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of such powerful winter storms.