Icy Weather Caused a Massive Pile Up of Over 40 Vehicles in Wisconsin

Around 5:45 a.m., a major pileup occurred on Interstate 94 in Wisconsin. CST on Thursday, shutting down the route ahead of the morning traffic on Thursday.

Early Season Winter Storm Blankets Colorado In Snow

(Photo : Photo by Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images)

The incident, which occurred in west-central Wisconsin south of Eau Claire, was first reported to have involved nearly 100 automobiles. According to The Associated Press, State Patrol Lt. Tim Weiberg later stated that the real number of cars participating was closer to 40.

Thankfully, no one was hurt or killed, according to the Wisconsin State Patrol.

A Terrible Accident

By Thursday evening, all driveable automobiles involved in the incident had been evacuated, while east and westbound traffic remained detoured as emergency services worked to remove damaged vehicles. Around 8 p.m. local time, a single lane in both directions of I-94 was reopened as the evening progressed.

"This morning's freezing rain resulted in slick/hazardous road conditions," according to the Wisconsin State Patrol. Other main routes in the region have also been reported to be icy.

"Temperatures were around 23 degrees with a little breeze," said AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Bob Smerbeck. "A band of sleet and freezing rain moving out of Minnesota increased immediately above Eua Claire, causing the roadways to ice up."

Around 6:45 a.m., weather radar appeared. On Thursday, CST showed a swath of wintry weather throughout central Wisconsin, including the crash site.

As it moved from Wisconsin to Michigan, northwestern Pennsylvania, and western New York by early Thursday evening, it brought snow essentially. The storm is forecast to dump snow in northwest Pennsylvania, north of Pittsburgh, and west of State College, with the chance of ice, according to Smerbeck.

I-94 travelers were no longer being detoured by late Thursday evening, and single eastbound and westbound lanes remained available. According to Wisconsin DOT, the crash scene cleanup should be completed by Thursday night.

Early on Friday, another round of snowy weather is expected to sweep across northern Wisconsin, perhaps causing more slick roadways for holiday travelers.

Those who must travel in winter circumstances should proceed with caution and allow extra time to arrive at their destination.

Driving Risk

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Summer months can be more dangerous for drivers than winter months, which may come as a surprise. Nonetheless, most winter driving statistics show that storms, snow, rain, fog, and ice roads pose a significant traffic hazard. It is essential to raise awareness about the dangers of winter driving while also assisting everyone in remaining safe.

Given the high number of car accidents that occur during winter, let's focus on some safety guidelines and practical advice for driving in inclement weather.

Driving During Winter

Get your car ready.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have adequate tread depth.
Check the battery in your car.
Always keep at least half a tank of gas in your vehicle.
Warm-weather items should be ready, such as a flashlight, a glass scraper, and blankets.
Important prescriptions, extra food and water, and warm clothing should be included.

These winter driving advice are based on the most typical dangers that winter driving conditions bring, so they should help you avoid a car accident.