So far this winter has been relatively mild by Wisconsin standards, but we're currently in the arms of some genuine winter weather. We've dipped down to zero and below the last two nights, and we're currently in a winter weather advisory for this afternoon and tomorrow.

You may have noticed the big red banner on the top of the site. Most of the area is under a flood watch for heavy rain starting in the next few hours and running through the night.  Many of us can expect 2-4 inches of rain tonight, with small areas getting more. There may also be gusty winds as the remnants of Tropical Storm Cristobal co Ime over. Hang tight, it's just another trial in our lives this week. But be careful.

Update - we are seeing numerous reports from different sources that the roads, particularly in Eau Claire County, are getting dangerous as the temperature drops and black ice is forming on the roadways. Be very careful in the evening commute.

10:15 PM - The Eau Claire Police Department has advised that the snowplows have been taken off of the streets for the time being and that travel is not advised. A semi is blocking the road Northeast of Brackett at the intersection of County Road J and Lincoln Town Line Road. This semi cannot be removed currently and the road will remain blocked for the time being. 

The Chippewa Valley has already set a record for the largest snowfall in one year, and it looks like we're going to get hit with another winter storm right before the end of the year. The red banner at the top of the site shows weather warnings. The predicted snowfall for tomorrow has been inching upward throughout the day, and we're now under an official Winter Storm Warning, with predictions of up to 10" of snow in some of the area. 

A quick note - the Eau Claire County Beaches are now all open, so let the water skiing and other activities begin. Bacteria levels have finally dropped to acceptable levels.  And the road buckling on Highway 53 is now fixed, so it's all clear on the roads as well.  On the other hand there is the weather to deal with, as the weather bureau has placed the area under an enhanced risk for severe weather tonight. Take it from my friend Rosanne Rosannadanna, it's alway something.

Please be careful. There is a blizzard warning for some of the local counties and storm warnings for the rest of the area.  The Blizzard Warning is in effect from 9 PM tonight (Saturday) through 6 PM on Sunday. Visibility will be extremely limited and travel  will be dangerous.

Blizzard warning is below:

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Please note that local roads are deteriorating quickly with this morning's heavy snowfall. Reports are coming in for crashes on I94 and Highway 29 that have closed traffic lanes.

This isn't going to be a big surprise to anyone who has a window, but it's snowing ou there in the Chippwewa Valley. Hang on to your hats, it's going to be a bumpy ride over the next couple of days - the photo is the latest MINIMUM snow fall from NOAA - expect more.

Latest warnings are: