Walker declares State of Emergency in response to winter weather

MADISON -- Governor Scott Walker has issued an Executive Order declaring a State of Emergency in response to the upcoming winter storm.

Strong winds and heavy snow fall are expected to move across the state beginning Wednesday, December 19th. The Executive Order will ready the Wisconsin National Guard, Wisconsin Emergency Management, the State Patrol, and other Wisconsin agencies.

“I issued this executive order to make sure Wisconsin is prepared for whatever this winter storm may bring,” Governor Walker said.  “Mobilizing our state agency resources during this storm will ensure we leave nothing to chance when it comes to protecting the citizens of Wisconsin.”

The Wisconsin State Patrol and the National Weather Service are urging citizens to avoid traveling.  Emergency Operation Centers (E.O.C.) will open tonight at 8 PM when the E.O.C. status is changed to level 3. 

Level 4 is the status under normal conditions.  Changing the level will be the first stage of activation for Wisconsin Emergency Management.  The Department of Administration will be the point of contact regarding all state closures.