Wisconsin – Tires hiss on wet pavement, then suddenly lose grip as a thin glaze of ice forms across La Crosse, turning routine drives into slow, cautious crawls within minutes.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, freezing rain is producing ice accumulations up to around 0.2 inches, with some areas along and north of I-90 seeing even higher localized icing. A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect through late morning, with slippery roads expected to impact travel early in the day.
Across western Wisconsin and southeast Minnesota, roads like I-90 and Highway 53 are seeing rapid changes. Bridges and overpasses freeze first, especially in higher terrain and ridge-top areas. Drivers should slow down and avoid sudden braking. Even treated roads may remain slick for several hours.
Conditions begin to improve gradually as temperatures rise into the mid-40s. Ice transitions to steady rain, but travel risks continue with wet pavement and reduced visibility. Gusty winds may add to the challenge, especially on open roadways near the Mississippi River.
Meteorologists are now tracking a shift later today. Isolated strong storms could develop south of I-90, bringing gusty winds and brief heavy rain into the evening. Another round of rain arrives late into the first weekend of April, raising concerns for rising rivers and localized flooding.
By Sunday, calmer weather returns with partial sunshine and highs near the low 50s. Early next week trends cooler again, with nighttime temperatures dipping near freezing. Any leftover moisture could refreeze, creating new slick spots during early morning drives.
Conditions are changing quickly across the La Crosse region. Are roads icy where you are right now?
Five Day Forecast for La Crosse, Wisconsin:
Thursday: High 45°F, freezing rain early changing to rain
Friday: High 50°F, showers likely then partial clearing
Saturday: High 46°F, slight chance of showers
Sunday: High 51°F, mostly sunny and calmer
Monday: High 48°F, partly sunny with cooler mornings**
