Wisconsin — Cold river air clings to the Mississippi Valley this morning. La Crosse wakes up near 30 degrees, with still air and a pale winter sky stretching over the bluffs. Pavement looks dry for now, but the chill bites quickly when stepping outside.
Today stays mostly cloudy and breezy. Northwest winds gust past 25 mph at times, keeping highs capped near 38 degrees. It feels colder along open roads and river crossings. Drivers should stay alert on Highway 53 and local bridges, where lingering moisture can refreeze early and late.
Skies clear tonight, and temperatures dip into the low 20s. That sets up another crisp start Wednesday. Sunshine returns during the day, but warmth remains limited. Highs again top out near 38 degrees, with calmer winds by afternoon making it feel slightly more tolerable.
Attention then shifts to Thursday. Meteorologists are tracking a weak system sliding through the Upper Midwest. Snow is possible early, followed by a brief rain-and-snow mix late morning. Any accumulation looks light, but timing matters. Even minor precipitation can turn slushy fast near freezing. Plan extra time if traveling through the morning hours, especially near higher elevations and shaded roads.
Thursday night clears quickly. Temperatures fall into the mid-20s, locking in any leftover moisture and increasing the risk for slick spots by daybreak Friday.
Friday delivers a noticeable change. Sunshine dominates, and highs climb into the mid-40s. Snowbanks soften, and sidewalks finally thaw during the afternoon. That warming trend continues into Valentine’s Day weekend, with Saturday and Sunday both reaching the upper 40s under mostly sunny skies.
Looking ahead, NOAA’s 6–10 day outlook favors above-normal temperatures across Wisconsin. Even with the Mississippi and nearby lakes still edged with ice, late-February warmth appears ready to expand.
Winter still whispers here, but spring is getting louder. Are you seeing early thaw signs where you live?
Five-Day Outlook for La Crosse, Wisconsin
• Today: Mostly cloudy, breezy, high near 38°
• Wednesday: Sunny, cool, high near 38°
• Thursday: Chance of snow/rain mix, high near 42°
• Friday: Sunny and milder, high near 46°
• Saturday: Mostly sunny, continued thaw, high near 47°
