LA CROSSE, Wis. – Western Wisconsin’s sunny stretch is about to end as a fall storm system pushes through the region this weekend, bringing scattered showers, gusty winds, and a brief cooldown. Residents across the Mississippi River Valley should prepare for wet roads and changing conditions by Saturday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, Thursday will stay mostly cloudy but mild, with highs in the mid-60s. Friday will warm further into the upper 70s as southeast winds strengthen, gusting up to 25 mph ahead of an approaching cold front. While the day will stay mostly dry, clouds will thicken late, signaling the next round of fall rain.
Showers and a few thunderstorms are expected to develop across La Crosse, Trempealeau, and Monroe counties Saturday afternoon, continuing into the evening. The best chance for rainfall will be between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. along and north of I-90. Forecasters say rainfall totals will stay light, but heavier pockets could briefly reduce visibility. Those attending outdoor events or football games should keep rain gear close.
Conditions will clear quickly by Sunday morning as cooler, drier air moves in. Sunshine will return with highs near 60, making it a perfect day for fall foliage drives and pumpkin patch visits. The week ahead looks calm and seasonable, with mild afternoons and crisp evenings.
Five-Day Forecast for La Crosse, WI:
Thu: 67/59 – Cloudy with scattered light showers.
Fri: 76/52 – Partly sunny; breezy with increasing clouds.
Sat: 71/44 – Showers and a few rumbles; turning cooler.
Sun: 59/41 – Sunny and breezy; classic fall day.
Mon: 64/45 – Mostly sunny; mild and calm.
