Milwaukee, Wisconsin – A light round of snow is moving across southeast Wisconsin on New Year’s Day, bringing minor accumulations but potentially slick travel conditions through the afternoon. While snowfall totals are expected to remain low, untreated roads could become slippery as temperatures stay cold.
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan, snow will spread southeast across the region late this morning and continue into the afternoon hours. Most areas, including Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine, and Kenosha, are expected to see less than one inch of accumulation. A few isolated spots could approach an inch, though confidence in higher totals remains low.
Snow is expected to begin late morning, peak between midday and mid-afternoon, and taper off by late afternoon or early evening. With temperatures in the teens and lower 20s, even light snowfall may quickly coat untreated roads, sidewalks, and parking lots. Bridges and overpasses are especially vulnerable to slick conditions.
The most noticeable impacts are expected on lesser-traveled roads, neighborhood streets, and rural routes across southeast Wisconsin. Major highways should remain mostly wet, but brief slick spots are possible during heavier snow bursts. Visibility reductions are expected to be minor, though short-lived decreases may occur at times.
Drivers are encouraged to slow down, increase following distance, and allow extra time for travel during the midday and afternoon hours. Pedestrians should also use caution on sidewalks and steps as light snow accumulates.
Once snow ends later today, conditions gradually improve, though cold temperatures will keep any lingering snow from melting quickly. No significant additional snowfall is expected tonight.
This light snow marks the primary weather concern for New Year’s Day across the Milwaukee area. No major disruptions are anticipated, but caution is advised while snow is falling. Quiet weather is expected to return later today, providing a calm and manageable start to 2026 for southeast Wisconsin.
