Snowy evening makes driving a challenge in Racine

RACINE (WITI) -- The snow fell hard enough on New Year's Eve to make driving a challenge -- especially in Racine County.

The roads were slick and the bitter cold had settled in. But inside John's Dock Bar, there is a taste of the tropics.

"Typically, this should be the second best night of the year," said John Dunk, owner of the bar.

The beach bar warmed up revelers as they got ready to celebrate the New Year. But it's not nearly as busy as it would normally be. The bad weather kept some customers at home -- and forced others to leave.

"It couldn't have been worse timing having this weather come up on us," said Racine County Sheriff Christopher Schmaling.

The Racine County Sheriff's Department prepared for potentially busy night. The department had additional squads and staff. That included a Snow Cat -- which can travel off-road and through heavy snow if things get rough.

Officials hoped things would not get that bad -- and encouraged people to stay off the roads and make smart choices.