Drivers Advised To Stay Off Roads

MILWAUKEE -- Sub-zero temperatures and high winds caused hazardous driving conditions statewide. The Wisconsin Emergency Management Center said motorists are urged to stay off the roads unless travel is necessary.

Because of the very cold temperatures, road salt will not be effective on icy roads.According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, most roads in the southern part of the state are ice covered and slippery.

The Milwaukee County Sheriff's Department urged drivers to be cautious of the icy road conditions. Police said they responded to nearly two-dozen spinouts overnight.

In Dane County, Wisconsin State Patrol shut down Interstate 39/90 near Stoughton in both directions this morning because of an accident involving a car and semi.

The Wisconsin State Patrol says it has cleared the crash, however, the highway is still icy, and traffic back-ups should be expected.

This is the same area where hundreds of motorists were stranded last week during a traffic backup amid heavy snowfall.

The Sheboygan County Sheriff's Department said all roads are experiencing extreme drifting, particularly the north-south roads.

No roads in Sheboygan County have been closed. The sheriff's department recommends if anyone needs to travel, he or she should try to stay on state highways as they may be in better condition than the secondary roads, have a cell phone, ample fuel, extra clothing and possibly even food to care for oneself in the event a person should become stuck.

For winter road conditions, check the Wisconsin Department of Transportation's Web site.