No Travel Advised in Wisconsin

Blizzard conditions prompt widespread closures and warnings across the state

Mar. 16, 2026 at 2:54am

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has issued a no-travel advisory for much of the state due to dangerous blizzard conditions, with highways across Central Wisconsin reported to be "completely snow covered and impassable." Local officials and public works crews are also urging residents to stay off the roads, as the hazardous weather is expected to continue into Monday.

Why it matters

The severe winter storm has caused widespread disruptions across Wisconsin, forcing the closure of businesses, schools, and even the court system in some areas. The dangerous driving conditions pose a serious risk to public safety and could delay emergency response efforts.

The details

According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, highways across Central Wisconsin are "completely snow covered and impassable" due to the blizzard conditions. Blowing snow is causing drifting and reducing visibility, with another round of snow expected early Monday morning. Local public works and law enforcement crews are encouraging residents to stay off the streets, as "every unnecessary vehicle on the road creates additional hazards and can delay plows and emergency responders trying to reach people in need."

  • The no-travel advisory was issued on Sunday, March 16, 2026.
  • Another round of snow is expected early Monday morning, March 17, 2026.

The players

Wisconsin Department of Transportation

The state agency responsible for maintaining and overseeing Wisconsin's transportation infrastructure.

Marathon County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency for Marathon County, Wisconsin, which is encouraging residents to stay off the roads.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Every unnecessary vehicle on the road creates additional hazards and can delay plows and emergency responders trying to reach people in need.”

— Marathon County Sheriff's Office

What’s next

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation will continue to monitor the weather and road conditions, and provide updates on the no-travel advisory as the storm progresses.

The takeaway

This severe winter storm serves as a reminder of the importance of heeding weather warnings and avoiding unnecessary travel during hazardous conditions, in order to ensure public safety and allow emergency responders to effectively do their jobs.