Door County officials say all nonessential county government operations will be closed Monday as a powerful winter storm moves across northeast Wisconsin.

County leaders announced Sunday that government locations and services will shut down March 16, with only essential operations continuing. Officials said the decision was made in response to historic winter storm Elsa, which is impacting the Door and Kewaunee County region with hazardous travel and heavy snow.

Emergency services and other critical functions will remain operational to protect public safety, according to the county. You are strongly urged to avoid all nonessential travel during the storm.

State officials are also ramping up emergency monitoring. Wisconsin Emergency Management elevated the State Emergency Operations Center in Madison to Level 3 at 9 a.m. Sunday to increase coordination and support for communities affected by the storm.

At that level, state agencies expand monitoring of conditions and provide assistance to local emergency managers if needed. Agencies involved include the Wisconsin State Patrol, Department of Natural Resources and Department of Health Services.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation says travel conditions are becoming increasingly dangerous across northeastern Wisconsin, including Door and Kewaunee counties. Officials say travel is not advised in many areas.

Emergency officials encourage residents to monitor local alerts, keep cell phones charged in case of power outages and check on neighbors, particularly older adults and those with limited mobility.

Motorists who become stranded are advised to stay in their vehicles, turn on hazard lights and call 911 for assistance.

Travel conditions and updates are available through the state’s 511 Wisconsin system and official transportation advisories.