March 13, 2026
VIROQUA, Wis. — A prolonged and potentially dangerous winter storm is expected to impact Vernon County beginning Saturday night, bringing heavy snow, ice accumulation and strong winds that could make travel difficult to impossible through Monday, according to the National Weather Service.
A Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 7 p.m. Saturday through 1 p.m. Monday for much of southwest Wisconsin, including Vernon County and the city of Viroqua.
Forecasters say the storm is expected to produce 6 to 12 inches of snow, with locally higher amounts possible, along with sleet and freezing rain. Ice accumulations of one‑tenth to three‑tenths of an inch are also possible, increasing the risk of downed tree branches and power outages.
Winds are forecast to gust as high as 50 mph, which could lead to blizzard or near‑blizzard conditions, especially from late Sunday into Monday morning as falling and blowing snow sharply reduce visibility.
The National Weather Service said travel conditions could deteriorate rapidly during the storm’s peak, with widespread blowing and drifting snow making some roads impassable. Officials warned that the hazardous conditions could significantly affect the Monday morning commute.
Snow may begin as a mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain before transitioning to heavier snow, making it difficult to pinpoint exact accumulation totals while still posing a high impact to residents and travelers across the region.
The National Weather Service office in La Crosse described the system as a major winter storm and urged residents to make preparations ahead of time, noting that conditions may worsen as the storm lingers into early next week.
Officials advise residents to avoid unnecessary travel during the warning period. Those who must be on the roads are encouraged to keep an emergency kit in their vehicles, including food, water and a flashlight. Motorists can check current road conditions at 511wi.gov for Wisconsin highways.
Residents are urged to continue monitoring forecasts and updates as the storm approaches, as changes in storm track or intensity could affect local impacts.
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