11095783 - man blowing snow to clear out sidewalk and driveway

WAUSAU PILOT AND REVIEW

Heavy snow, freezing rain and gusty winds in the forecast prompted the National Weather Service to issue a winter storm warning for Marathon County starting at 6 p.m. Saturday.

Weather officials say travel will be difficult or even impossible. The warning extends until 6 p.m. Sunday.

Expect heavy mixed precipitation with up to 9 inches of snow and up to a quarter-inch glaze from freezing rain. The heaviest snow will fall west of Wausau, with the greatest chance of significant icing east of the city.

Gusty winds of up to 45 mph are expected, creating areas of blowing and drifting.

Strong winds could cause damage to trees, resulting in sporadic power outages, officials said.

Officials say drivers who must travel should keep an extra flashlight, blankets, food, and water in case of an emergency.

Call 5-1-1 for the latest road conditions.