LA CROSSE, Wis. – Western Wisconsin will trade sunshine for showers this weekend as a passing fall storm system brings scattered rain and thunder before cooler, breezy air settles in by Sunday. Travelers along I-90 and U.S. 14 should expect slick pavement and brief low visibility during passing showers late Friday into Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, scattered thunderstorms may develop Friday afternoon as a cold front pushes east through the Upper Mississippi Valley. While severe weather is not anticipated, gusty winds and brief downpours could affect outdoor plans and fall events across La Crosse, Onalaska, and Winona.
Saturday will stay warm, with highs near 72°F, but rain chances rise into the evening before clearing early Sunday. Winds will shift northwest at 10–15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph as drier, cooler air moves in. The system’s timing means Saturday’s afternoon plans—especially local pumpkin patches or park outings—may see brief interruptions before improving conditions Sunday.
Sunday brings a classic mid-October finish: mostly sunny skies, highs near 59°F, and crisp, clean air across the Coulee Region. The start of next week remains mild and calm, with sunny skies Monday before another weak system approaches midweek.
Residents are advised to secure outdoor decorations and allow extra time for travel during passing showers. Sunday’s sunshine will make for excellent leaf-viewing drives along the bluffs and river valleys.
Five-Day Forecast for La Crosse, WI:
Fri: 77/53 – Showers; isolated thunder possible.
Sat: 72/44 – Partly sunny; scattered rain later.
Sun: 59/42 – Sunny; breezy and cooler.
Mon: 65/47 – Mostly sunny; calm and pleasant.
Tue: 54/39 – Partly cloudy; chance of light showers.
