Governor Tony Evers declared a state of emergency in Wisconsin on Saturday, March 14, as parts of the state could experience a record-breaking winter storm that could dump up to 27 inches of snow.
On March 14 at approximately 6:45 p.m., Evers issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency in the state. The order directs all state agencies, including the Wisconsin National Guard, to “assist in response and recovery efforts as appropriate.”
The storm, which began on March 14 and is expected to last through Monday, March 16, has caused widespread power outages, closures and hazardous road conditions across Wisconsin. A blizzard warning remains in effect for the northern half of the state.
Snowfall amounts of up to 30 inches are possible in some areas. Wind gusts could reach as high as 50 mph in some locations including Barron, Rusk, Chippewa, Dunn, Eau Claire, Pepin, Pierce and St. Croix counties.
A Winter Weather Warning is in effect for the Milwaukee area from 10 p.m. Sunday, March 15, to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 16.
By declaring a state of emergency, agencies, local partners, utilities and emergency management officials can mobilize a response to damage caused by the storm.
The emergency declaration was issued based on a damage assessment and requests from local partners, the governor’s office said.
This article originally appeared in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers declares winter storm emergency