Warm Temps Drag in Fog, Ice and Rain

MADISON, Wis. (CIVIC MEDIA) – As a system lifts from the south, changing weather conditions can make for a hazardous travel after the holiday.

Moisture and warmth from the south is filtering into the state starting Thursday and into Friday. As it does so, temperatures across Wisconsin will be rising not only throughout the entire day but also into the overnight.

As this system lifts in, it’s bringing dense fog and above freezing temperatures, that will begin to melt the snow as well. Plus, rain.

⚠️ Driving today?! 🚗 #ice #slippery #roads #surfaces #winterweatheradvisory #densefogadvisory #wi #wx pic.twitter.com/CamC6fElH2

— Brittney Merlot ⛈ (@MerlotsWeather) December 26, 2024

Beware as temperatures flirt with the freezing mark at various points throughout the day, there may be light ice accumulations as freezing rain chances target portions of Central Wisconsin and especially the Fox Valley. Slick and slippery conditions are likely in these areas. Especially on untreated surfaces. Check out WI 511 for current road conditions before you travel.

Fog is also widespread and reducing visibilites to less than a mile in some spots. Use your low beams and don’t slam on your brakes while driving. The Dense Fog Advisory lasts through Friday afternoon. This mist can also freeze to surfaces creating slippery conditions in places. Be aware!

As the temperatures go up and down over the next few days, melting and re-freezing will take place. Remember that slip and fall injuries are among the most common winter-related accidents, often leading to serious consequences like fractures, sprains, or head injuries.

“You want to make sure you have some good quality footwear with good traction, good tread, non-slip soles, something that’s pretty stable and secure on your feet.” explains Kaitlin Eichman, a Physical Therapist at Aspirus. “Make your base of support a little wider, think penguin feet. Turn your feet outward a little bit and take short steps.”

Slopes and stairs can be particularly dangerous for individuals with limited mobility. “Move slowly, look where you are going, use a handrail or car and keep your arms free. Don’t step onto an angled curb with your arms full of grocery bags.” said Eichman.

Winter hazards don’t stop at the doorstep. Melted snow and water tracked inside can create slippery floors. Be sure to put down absorbent mats at all entrances and use boot trays to catch the excess water.