Wisconsin wakes to a gray, low ceiling over the Mississippi River as a cold northwest wind slides across wet pavement and the first light flakes drift around La Crosse — a visual cue that Winter Weather conditions will build quickly today. Drivers may notice a gritty chill in the air and light frost on windshields, signaling the start of a prolonged snow event that will directly affect Post-Thanksgiving travel.
According to the National Weather Service, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect from early Saturday morning through early Sunday for La Crosse, Sparta, Tomah, Adams, Friendship, and surrounding counties. Meteorologists expect 6–9 inches of heavy snow, with snowfall rates possibly nearing 1 inch per hour Saturday afternoon.
Residents should plan for difficult travel, especially along Highway 53, I-90, and river-adjacent routes where visibility may drop fast.
Light snow may start later today as moisture deepens, but the more impactful period begins Saturday morning. Snow intensifies through midday as a strong wave moves east, spreading steady accumulation across western Wisconsin. To be fair, exact band placement may shift slightly, but the region sits squarely in a high-probability zone for significant snowfall.
Plan extra time if traveling Saturday, and keep emergency gear in your vehicle.
Snow tapers from west to east late Saturday night, though winds may still push lingering flakes across open fields and bridge decks. Sunday turns much calmer with sunshine returning and highs near 24°, although icy patches may persist where packed snow meets colder morning air.
This system also marks a broader Winter Tease heading into early December. Long-range guidance hints at a December 2–6 cold front that could drop temperatures well below normal across the Midwest and bring additional light snow chances — something early holiday travelers should watch.
Five-Day Outlook (Fri–Tue)
- Today: Mostly cloudy, high 27.
- Saturday: Heavy snow, high 27.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 24.
- Monday: Partly sunny, high 18.
- Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, high 22.
