Madison, Wisconsin – A colder and highly active winter pattern is expected to take hold across Wisconsin as the New Year approaches, with strong signals for accumulating snow, lake-effect impacts, and hazardous travel from Dec 27 through Jan 9.
Large-scale atmospheric patterns favor frequent storm systems tracking through the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes during this period. According to the National Weather Service, colder air is expected to remain firmly in place across the region, allowing most systems to produce snow rather than rain. Northern Wisconsin currently shows the strongest signal for repeated snowfall, while central and southern areas, including Madison and Milwaukee, are also likely to see multiple snow events.
Lake-effect snow may become a factor at times near Lake Superior and along the Lake Michigan shoreline, adding localized heavier totals and rapidly changing conditions. Snowfall is expected to arrive in several waves rather than one prolonged storm, increasing the risk of recurring travel disruptions during the busy New Year holiday period.
Major corridors including I-90, I-94, I-39, US-151, and I-43 could experience snow-covered roads, reduced visibility, and delays, particularly overnight and during early morning hours. Gusty winds with stronger systems may lead to blowing snow in open areas and isolated power outages where snow accumulates on trees and power lines.
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation urges drivers to remain flexible with travel plans, monitor road conditions closely, and carry winter emergency supplies. While brief quieter periods are expected between systems, the overall setup supports a snowy and potentially disruptive start to 2026 across Madison and much of Wisconsin.
