Wisconsin wakes up under a biting December cold as arctic air tightens its grip across Milwaukee and surrounding communities. The air feels sharp and unforgiving, with wind cutting through layers before sunrise. Sidewalks crunch under frozen snow, and exposed skin stings within minutes.
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee, a Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect until 10 a.m. CST for southeast Wisconsin. Wind chills around 20 to 25 degrees below zero pose a real frostbite risk, especially for early drivers, transit riders, and anyone outdoors without full winter protection. Frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.
Temperatures today struggle to climb, topping out near 9°F, while northwest winds keep it feeling far colder. Drivers should watch for black ice, especially on untreated roads, bridges, and ramps during the morning hours. Plan extra travel time and keep emergency winter gear in vehicles.
Conditions stay cold but calmer heading into Monday. Skies turn partly sunny, and highs recover into the mid-20s, though wind chills remain below zero early. By Tuesday, southwest winds help temperatures rebound into the upper 30s, signaling a brief break from the deep freeze. That warm-up may melt lingering snow during the day, increasing the risk of flash freezing once temperatures dip again at night.
Looking ahead to midweek, clouds increase with a chance of rain late Wednesday night as temperatures hover near freezing. Any changeover or refreeze could quickly create slick travel during evening commutes.
With the week before Christmas underway and holiday travel ramping up, residents should stay weather-aware and flexible. Keep coats, hats, and gloves close, check on neighbors, and monitor changing road conditions.
5-Day Snapshot:
• Sunday: Sunny, high near 9°F
• Monday: Partly sunny, high near 24°F
• Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, high near 37°F
• Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 38°F
• Wednesday Night: Chance of rain, low near 31°F
