APPLETON, WI (WTAQ) - Officials in Outagamie County are ready for the major winter storm hitting Wisconsin starting late Wednesday night.

Outagamie County Executive Thomas Nelson says highway crews are ready and officals are reminding drivers to proceed with care. 

“This can be a dangerous time of year,” Nelson said in a release. “Given increased holiday travel and the potential for severe weather, it pays to be prepared. Getting stranded during a winter storm can be a matter of life and death.” 

Outagamie County has 57 snow removal units available, including trucks, graders, loaders, and snow blowers. In addition, the highway department stockpiles nearly 9,000 tons of salt for de-icing roads. 

“Drivers should plan their travel, selecting both primary and alternate routes,” said Nelson. “And it’s a good idea to share your itinerary, so that if you don’t arrive on time, officials will know where to search for you. If your car should become disabled, stay with the vehicle, running your engine and heater for short intervals.”