Matt Schaefer - WQOW 18 News ⛈️

*BLIZZARD WARNING* This is only Western Wisconsin’s 5th blizzard warning since 2006. While the winds may not quite maintain the 35+ mph requirement of a blizzard, visibility will be near zero with snow rates of 1 to 4 inches per hour bringing the potential for historic totals.

WINTER STORM WARNING: Saturday night through Monday morning. Accumulations have a chance (not guaranteed) to make Eau Claire's all-time list. I'll have a more detailed total forecast coming out later this afternoon.

TRAVEL NOT ADVISED once snow begins Saturday evening likely after sunset through at least Monday morning. If we get the high end totals that are possible but not guaranteed, side streets may be impassible or at least have difficult travel through Monday.

THIS WEEKEND: Heavy snow & gusty winds are likely: WINTER STORM WATCH in effect for the likelihood of 6"+ accumulations with a chance at 12"+ in some spots. Blizzard or near blizzard conditions are possible. TRAVEL IS NOT ADVISDED Sat eve. through Mon AM: PLEASE make other plans.

Light to moderate snow rates are likely tonight into tomorrow morning. Areas with higher forecast snow totals will see snow last longer as opposed to having heavier rates, and that's more likely further north where it's been snowing or will soon begin to snow.