Southeast Wisconsin is currently experiencing a severe winter storm that is predicted to be significantly worse than the one just a few days ago. The area is bracing for challenging conditions, with persistent snowfall and strong post-snowfall winds leading to blowing and drifting. Travel is strongly discouraged, particularly between the hours of 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., which is expected to be the worst period for travel.

As the storm intensifies, law enforcement agencies have been inundated with calls for assistance on the freeways. In Milwaukee County, the MCSO has reported 26 crashes and responded to around 50 disabled vehicles along the interstates. Meanwhile, in Waukesha County, deputies have responded to 19 crashes and assisted 41 vehicles that were stuck or disabled.

The storm has also wreaked havoc on air travel, with nearly half of the flights at Milwaukee Mitchell International airport being either cancelled or delayed. FlightAware.com has reported a staggering 2,788 cancellations nationwide, with 107 flights cancelled in Milwaukee alone, representing 42% of the scheduled flights. An additional 15 flights have been delayed, accounting for 7% of the scheduled flights. The airport remains open as dedicated snow removal crews work tirelessly in 12-hour shifts to de-ice and spread sand, ensuring the runways stay operational.

Further north, the National Weather Service has issued a blizzard warning for Sheboygan and Fond du Lac Counties, where heavy snow continues to fall. Some areas, especially inland, have already received over half a foot of snow, and the storm is only at its halfway point.

Tragically, the weather conditions have claimed a life in Franklin. The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner is investigating the death of a 69-year-old who went unresponsive while snow blowing outside his home.

The treacherous road conditions have also resulted in accidents, including a jackknifed semi on I-43 North that has forced the closure of the highway beyond the ramp from WIS 164. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has issued a warning about worsening road conditions across the state.

Local communities are taking necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their residents. The City of Waukesha has declared a snow emergency effective from 10:00 p.m. on Friday through Saturday at noon, while Milwaukee County has extended its snow emergency through Saturday, January 13th. City Hall and many general city offices will be closed at noon, with employees working remotely for the remainder of the afternoon.

Residents are urged to take extra precautions during this storm and stay off the roads if possible. The Milwaukee Department of Public Works continues to work diligently to clear the snow, focusing efforts on main streets. Wauwatosa has also declared a snow emergency, prohibiting parking on city streets from noon on January 12th to noon on January 13th.

The storm shows no signs of relenting, and residents are advised to stay updated on the latest weather alerts and exercise caution when venturing outside.