La Crosse, Wisconsin – Light freezing drizzle is expected to develop tonight into early Friday morning, potentially creating hazardous travel conditions along major roadways in west-central and southwest Wisconsin, according to the National Weather Service in La Crosse.
Forecasters report an increasing threat of freezing drizzle spreading from western into central Wisconsin after 8 p.m., with the highest travel impacts expected overnight through the Friday morning commute. Surface temperatures are forecast to hover near the freezing mark, which may limit widespread ice accumulation but still allow for slick spots on untreated roads, bridges, and overpasses.
The National Weather Service notes that the primary concern is patchy icing rather than heavy precipitation. Even small amounts of ice can significantly reduce traction, especially on elevated road surfaces along Interstate 94, Interstate 90, U.S. Highway 53, and nearby state highways.
Travel impacts are expected to range from low to locally moderate, depending on surface temperatures and precipitation type. Areas closer to the Mississippi River Valley, including La Crosse, Winona, Prairie du Chien, and surrounding corridors, may see brief periods of freezing drizzle before temperatures slowly rise Friday morning.
Motorists traveling overnight or during the early commute are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and remain alert for changing road conditions. The National Weather Service advises monitoring updated forecasts, as small temperature changes could alter where icing develops.
Above-normal temperatures are expected to continue through Friday, with highs reaching the mid-30s across much of the region. A brief cool down is forecast for the weekend, followed by warmer-than-normal temperatures early next week.
This alert is particularly relevant for overnight workers, early-morning commuters, and long-distance drivers using interstate routes through western Wisconsin.
