National Guard members ready, but still idle

MADISON (AP) -- About 100 Wisconsin National Guard members activated to respond to any calls for assistance related to the storm are standing by at armories around the state.

Guard Capt. Kristin Boustany said Thursday that so far they have not received any calls for help. The guard members were called to active duty to help stranded motorists, assist in closing roads and do any welfare checks on those affected by the winter storm.

Armories in Oconomowoc, Portage, Oak Creek, Milwaukee, Appleton, Beloit, Richland Center and Madison are staffed by guard members and serve as emergency shelters.

The Wisconsin State Patrol is cautioning against non-essential travel.