Blowing Snow Advisory Ends, Light Snow Then Dangerous Cold Arrives

A winter weather advisory was in effect across far northern and eastern Wisconsin on December 29 as strong winds created blowing and drifting snow, with headlines expected to end once winds decreased that afternoon. Conditions improved slowly overnight following a stronger wintry system, but the National Weather Service Green Bay forecast package signaled another round of winter impacts into early January for local communities including Keshena and Neopit.

A fast moving clipper system will bring light snow on Tuesday, with an inch or less likely for most locations. Locally higher amounts closer to two inches are possible in parts of eastern Wisconsin. Travelers should be prepared for slippery roads and pockets of reduced visibility where blowing and drifting snow persist, especially on rural county roads and state highways that serve freight and commuter routes.

The most significant local economic and safety implication will come from the surge of much colder air later in the week. Wind chills as cold as 15 to 25 below zero are possible Thursday morning and Friday morning. Those wind chills increase risks of frostbite and hypothermia and drive up residential heating demand. For households that heat with natural gas or electricity, this spike in demand can raise short term energy bills and stress furnace systems. Municipal services will see higher costs as well, with more frequent plow cycles and salt application required to maintain safe roads.

Local officials and service providers should review staffing for road maintenance, warming center availability, and assistance for vulnerable residents who rely on electric heat or have limited mobility. The forecast discussion and product suite from NWS Green Bay include local Winter Weather Advisories, warnings, and point forecasts that can help residents and local agencies target preparations.

In the broader context, even modest snow amounts combined with strong winds and extreme cold can disrupt travel, delay deliveries, and strain municipal budgets that cover snow removal and emergency response. Menominee County residents are advised to monitor local forecasts, allow extra travel time, and check on elderly neighbors and others at risk as the county moves from blowing snow to a period of dangerously cold wind chills later this week.