La Crosse, Wisconsin – Periods of light snow and freezing drizzle may create hazardous travel conditions across central and western Wisconsin late Thursday into early Friday, particularly along Interstate 94.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, temperatures will remain slightly below normal today before moderating into the mid-30s Thursday and Friday across the Upper Mississippi River Valley. While the warmer air limits heavy snowfall, it also increases the risk for mixed precipitation, including freezing drizzle.
Forecasters indicate a 40% to 70% chance of light snow overnight into Thursday morning along and north of Interstate 94, with minimal accumulation expected. However, as snow departs Thursday morning, freezing drizzle may develop, potentially leading to slick spots on untreated roads.
An additional round of wintry precipitation is possible late Thursday night into early Friday, again focused along and north of the I-94 corridor in central Wisconsin. During this second period, meteorologists warn that freezing rain could develop, which may quickly create hazardous driving conditions even if precipitation amounts remain light.
Impacted roadways may include Interstate 94, Interstate 90, Interstate 39, and connecting routes such as U.S. Highway 12 and U.S. Highway 53, affecting travel through La Crosse, Eau Claire, Tomah, Black River Falls, and Wisconsin Rapids. Bridges, overpasses, and secondary roads are most vulnerable to icing during freezing drizzle events.
The National Weather Service emphasizes that freezing rain can be especially dangerous, as ice may form rapidly with little visible warning. Drivers are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and be alert for sudden changes in traction, particularly during overnight and early morning hours.
Students, commuters, and shift workers traveling along I-94 late Thursday night or early Friday morning should plan for extra travel time and monitor updated forecasts closely.
This forecast is based on guidance issued early Wednesday morning and will be refined as confidence increases in the timing and type of precipitation.
