Milwaukee's 1st major snowstorm of season; DPW crews ready

The Milwaukee Department of Public Works (DPW) is geared up and ready for a winter storm set to move into Wisconsin on Monday night. 

"We prepare for snow and ice control all year round with the city of Milwaukee. It's our number one priority in DPW," said Jeff Laufenberg, Urban Forestry District Manager, City of Milwaukee. 

FOX6 Weather Experts are forecasting wet and heavy "heart attack snow," causing slick travel. Winds gusting near 40mph at times on Tuesday can cause extremely low visibility. Isolated power outages are possible. 

"We have crews staffed to come in this evening starting at 9 p.m. and we'll be on rolling 12-hour shifts throughout the duration of this event," said Laufenberg. "It's expected to go for probably about 36 hours or so."

Milwaukee DPW crews apply brine to the city's main streets. The city says it's better for the roads, environment and drinking water. 

Additionally, wet heavy snow can have significant impacts on trees. DPW Forestry staff, who also staff salt trucks and snow plows, are closely monitoring impacts and hazards to City street trees. 

Trees or large limbs that pose imminent public danger should be reported by calling 414-286-CITY(2489) others can be reported online. Pictures are encouraged to help staff determine priority level.

"We'll have about 101 salt trucks staffed, and then additional support staff and supervisors," said Laufenberg.

Light snow is expected to move into the area on Monday night, Jan. 8, and could accumulate 1-3". By 6 a.m. on Tuesday, a winter storm warning and watch will take effect for southeast Wisconsin. Snow will intensify with rates that could reach 1" an hour for some. 

"One of the biggest challenges is staffing. Keeping people well rested and ready to go throughout a long-duration event because it's pretty taxing, long 12-hour shifts, with little rest in-between," said Laufenberg. "We've got really good staff here, great employees."

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No impacts to parking are expected at this time. However, if a snow emergency is called, updates will be posted online. If you have any questions about whether you can park somewhere, you are invited to sign up for E-notify and text message notifications at Milwaukee.gov/parking.

Winter Parking regulations began December 1st, with no parking from 2 a.m. – 6 a.m. on through highways and bus routes. Posted signs take precedence, such as streets posted "No Parking Dec 1 – Mar 1". 

Stay informed about DPW snow emergencies

  • Sign up for Winter Parking Text Alerts at milwaukeeparkingalerts.com.
  • Follow DPW on Facebook and Twitter – both @milwaukeedpw
  • Join Next Door to receive DPW updates (City residents only)
  • Check the DPW website at milwaukee.gov/snow
  • Call 414-286-CITY for information and assistance

Ways you can help during a snow operation:

  • Please be patient and understanding, snow and ice operations take time, all streets will be cleared. 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.
  • 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.