Watertown, Wisconsin Declares 48-Hour Snow Emergency for Business District as Cleanup Begins

WATERTOWN, WI — City officials have declared a 48-hour snow emergency for Watertown’s central business district as crews work to clear accumulating snow from Tuesday’s storm system. The order, issued Tuesday morning by the Watertown Police Department, affects only the Central City Snow Removal Area, where overnight parking will be temporarily banned to allow plows full access to narrow commercial streets.

Snow Emergency Targets Central City Removal Zone

The emergency declaration applies specifically to Watertown’s mapped Central City Snow Removal Area, a zone that includes the city’s core business district. Officials emphasized that parking outside of this defined area remains allowed, and residents are encouraged to review the city’s official boundary map.

Within the removal zone, all parking on streets and alleys is prohibited from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. each night until the order is lifted.

Cleanup to Continue Through 48 Hours — Second Night May Be Canceled

The snow emergency begins 11 p.m. Tuesday and is scheduled to run for 48 hours. However, city officials noted that the second overnight period may be canceled if plow crews complete the necessary cleanup sooner than expected.

The overnight parking restriction allows heavy equipment to move safely and efficiently through the city’s tightest corridors, where parked vehicles often make snow removal difficult.

Violations Could Lead to Fines for Drivers

Residents who ignore the parking ban risk a $50 citation, according to police. City leaders are urging drivers in the downtown area to move vehicles before the 11 p.m. deadline to avoid delays or fines.

The emergency declaration comes as First Alert Weather meteorologists designated Tuesday a First Alert Weather Day, citing travel difficulties and ongoing slick conditions across southern Wisconsin.

Stay prepared and follow the latest winter weather updates at ChicagoMusicGuide.com.