01/06/2025
❄️ DPW Snow and Ice Control Operations plan for Sunday, January 5th to Monday, January 6th 2025
Forecast: Lake-effect snow is expected to develop into a narrow band over far southeast Wisconsin late tonight, Sunday, January 5th, and is predicted to begin in the greater Milwaukee area after 8 p.m. The heaviest snow is expected between 2 a.m. and 8 a.m. Monday morning. Winds gusting at 20-30 mph will cause the light, powdery snow to blow around, making it challenging to manage. Visibility will be reduced during this time. Snowfall is expected to accumulate at a rate of 0.1" to 0.5" per hour, with some areas potentially receiving 1-2" per hour. Temperatures are expected to be in the low to mid-teens with highs in the low 30s. Please use caution if traveling tonight and into Monday’s rush hour.
As expressed by local meteorologist, “Preparing for lake effect snow is frustrating -- it can be an all-or-nothing event for those in the snow zone. 75% of SE Wisconsin will not see any snow (however it’s difficult to determine exactly where snow will or will not fall). Your standard weather app will *NOT* come in handy for this.” Please be patient and exercise caution while traveling.
The Plan: In preparation for the upcoming unpredictable lake-effect snow weather event, the Department of Public Works (DPW) took proactive steps on Friday, January 3rd by treating main roadways with a brine solution. This application, which creates visible white lines of liquid salt on the streets, helps prevent ice buildup.
As the predicted lake-effect snow approaches, DPW staff will be called in to standby at 9 p.m. on Sunday, January 5th. Staff will work rotating 12 to 15-hour shifts, around the clock, throughout the storm and during cleanup efforts. Depending on snowfall accumulation, it may be necessary to use garbage trucks equipped with plow blades, which could temporarily affect recycling and garbage collection schedules. Updates will be shared as needed.
The Department of Public Works (DPW) urges all residents and travelers to drive cautiously and adjust speed to road conditions during the storm. Please give salt and plow trucks ample space on the road to ensure they can safely clear streets. Additionally, be sure to follow parking rules so that trucks can access and treat all city streets effectively. Your cooperation is appreciated to help keep everyone safe and ensure efficient snow removal.
Garbage and Recycling Collections: Snow events could cause delays in garbage or recycling collections. Depending on total snow accumulations there may be delays in garbage or recycling collections. Any garbage or recycling that is missed will be collected later in the week – please keep uncollected carts at the collection point until serviced. Changes and updates will be posted online. To ensure service, clear snow and ice around and on top of your garbage and recycling carts – clearing a path for the cart to be rolled. Your normal scheduled collection days can be found at https://city.milwaukee.gov/sanitation/GarbageRecyclingSchedules
Parking: No impact to parking is expected at this time however anytime a snow emergency is called, updates will be posted online. Always follow posted signs and park as close to the curb as possible to give room for the large salt and plow trucks to pass through streets. We encourage those that park on the street to sign up for E-notify and text message notifications at Milwaukee.gov/parking
Ways you can help during a snow operation:
• Please be patient and understanding, snow and ice operations take time, all streets will be cleared. It can take 24-48 hours to plow every street during larger snow events such as the one predicted currently.
• Drive carefully and plan your route to stay on main transportation routes as much as possible during snow and ice events.
• Only travel if absolutely necessary.
• Adjust driving for conditions by slowing down and providing more space for braking.
• Give salt and plow trucks space and stay back from the trucks salting or brining streets to ensure the product hits the streets instead of your car.
• Park legally and follow alternate side parking rules. DPW does a better job when parking rules are followed. Parking farther away from driveways, alleys and intersections allows our equipment to get through.
• Do not shovel, blow or plow snow back into the streets – this is considered litter and you may be subject to a citation.
• Shovel your sidewalk and corners within 24 hours after the snow has stopped falling, assist neighbors who need help.
• Clear the fire hydrant near your property of snow and ice.
• Clear snow and ice around and on top of your garbage and recycling carts.
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Stay informed about DPW snow emergencies:
· Sign up for Winter Parking Text Alerts at milwaukeeparkingalerts.com.
· Follow DPW on Facebook and Twitter – both
· Join Next Door to receive DPW updates (City residents only)
· Check the DPW website for snow and ice updates at milwaukee.gov/snow
· Call (414) 286-CITY (2489) for information and assistance
Current Operation status and information for snow and ice control in the City of Milwaukee.
