Madison, Wisconsin – Slick roads and reduced visibility could disrupt travel across the Upper Mississippi Valley by Wednesday morning as repeated rounds of rain begin impacting Iowa, Wisconsin, and Illinois during peak commute hours.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, this three-state corridor is in a high-confidence zone for above-average precipitation from Wednesday through Saturday, with totals expected to run 30 to 60 percent higher than normal. A strong signal for above-normal temperatures is also in place, with a 70 to 80 percent probability of warmer-than-average conditions across the region.
Madison, Milwaukee, and Chicago are expected to see multiple waves of rainfall, increasing the risk of standing water on major corridors including I-90, I-94, and I-80. In eastern Iowa, including Cedar Rapids and Davenport, heavier bursts could reduce visibility below one mile at times. Northern areas such as Green Bay and central Illinois cities like Rockford may also see ponding on roadways and localized flooding in low-lying areas.
Drivers should slow down on wet roads, avoid water-covered highways, and allow extra time for travel. Residents are encouraged to clear storm drains and check sump pumps ahead of the heaviest rainfall.
This wet and warm pattern is expected to continue through Saturday night, with additional advisories likely as rainfall totals and timing become more precise.
