Wisconsin — Tires hissed on wet pavement early Monday as a thin, nearly invisible glaze formed on colder road surfaces across western Wisconsin. What looked like ordinary December dampness quickly turned hazardous for the morning commute, especially before sunrise.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, a quick-moving system brought a wintry mix of light snow and freezing rain into the region before 6 a.m. A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 8 a.m. for La Crosse and surrounding communities. While snow amounts stay light, a glaze of ice is possible on untreated roads, sidewalks, and bridges.
The highest icing risk sits along the I-90 and I-94 corridors, where cold pavement allowed freezing rain to linger. Even brief bursts of precipitation created slick travel conditions, particularly on ramps, overpasses, and rural highways. Morning temperatures hovered near freezing, limiting melting early on.
Drivers were urged to slow down and plan extra time. A thin layer of ice can reduce traction quickly, even where snow totals remain under an inch. Local road crews focused on priority routes, but spotty slick patches remained a concern during peak travel hours.
Conditions gradually improve by late morning as temperatures rise above freezing. Highs reach the upper 30s this afternoon, helping melt lingering ice and slush. Any remaining precipitation exits quickly, leaving damp but improving road conditions into the afternoon and evening.
Tuesday offers a calmer winter day. Partial sunshine pushes highs near the upper 30s, easing travel concerns. Clouds return midweek, though no significant winter hazards are expected through Wednesday night.
Christmas Eve trends mostly cloudy and seasonable, with highs near the low 40s. While travel conditions improve later this week, winter patterns remain active nearby, and sudden changes are still possible.
For now, slow down, increase following distance, and stay alert on shaded roads. Winter has officially arrived, and it’s starting with a reminder. How slick were the roads on your drive this morning?
Five-Day Weather Outlook for La Crosse, Wisconsin
Monday: Wintry mix early, improving. High near 38.
Tuesday: Partly sunny. High near 38.
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy. High near 38.
Christmas Day: Mostly cloudy. High near 42.
Friday: Partly sunny. High near 39.
