People throughout central and northern Wisconsin are preparing for everything from rain and ice to several inches of snow.

The approaching snow storm could put a damper on what's been considered a mild winter so far.

This past fall, the National Weather Service and Farmers Almanac suggested it would be a very snow and cold winter.

Because of that prediction, many went out and bought a snow blower.

John Busakowski, of Ace Hardware in Weston, says this fall people stocked up on shovels, salt and snow blowers. But with just a few snow storms and not much else since, there haven't been many opportunities to use the winter supplies.

"This late fall we had a lot of snow blower sales because people thought that this winter was going to be a big, heavy snowfall winter and it hasn't been," Busakowski said.

He says the last couple of days have brought in a small crowd of folks wanting to be ready for that inevitable big storm.

Folks like Jerry Muzynoski of Schofield, who says this has been one of the mildest winters he can remember.

"I, myself like snowmobiling so I'm waiting for a foot or two. I'd really like to see that," he said.

In the meantime, retailers are pulling out their spring merchandise hoping to cash in on the mild winter.

Of course if we do get that big storm, you should be prepared when getting behind the wheel.

Wisconsin State Patrol, other law enforcement agencies, and dispatchers are on stand by, anticipating a big storm and the unfortunate accidents that often accompany bad weather.

Trooper Robert Fochs, with the Wausau post, says the mild winter has meant fewer accidents this year. However, with Tuesday night's anticipated storm that could quickly change.

Fochs recommends staying off the road if you can, but if you need to travel slow down and give yourself extra time to get to your destination.

"Be aware of your surroundings. If you see a car in the ditch or several in the ditch they're there for a reason, obviously the roads are slippery. Take that into consideration," Fochs said.

He says give yourself plenty of room between the car ahead of you, and stay back from snow plows.

Make sure your vehicle is well maintained, has a full tank of gas, and is equipped with an emergency kit.