Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Bitter air burns the lungs this morning as northwest winds sweep across Lake Michigan, driving wind chills deep below zero and making even short trips outside feel punishing.
A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect for Milwaukee and much of southeast Wisconsin through Sunday morning. Wind chills between 10 and 25 degrees below zero are expected, with the coldest conditions felt before sunrise and again after dark. According to the National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan office, exposed skin can develop frostbite in as little as 30 minutes.
Actual air temperatures hover in the single digits today, but steady winds near 15 mph push wind chills into dangerous territory. Sidewalks crunch underfoot, car doors stick, and engines struggle during early starts. Residents should limit time outdoors and wear hats, gloves, and face coverings if venturing out.
Travel conditions remain mostly dry, but extreme cold creates its own hazards. Vehicles may fail to start, tire pressure drops quickly, and untreated patches of pavement can turn slick. Drivers along I-94, I-43, and Highway 145 should allow extra time and keep emergency supplies in vehicles.
Sunday stays sunny but frigid. Highs reach only the lower teens, and wind chills remain below zero for much of the day. The advisory expires late Sunday morning, though the cold lingers into Sunday night with lows near zero.
A noticeable pattern shift arrives Monday. Temperatures climb into the mid-20s under partly sunny skies, and winds ease. By Tuesday, highs push into the mid-30s, helping ease heating demand and improve travel comfort. A chance of rain arrives midweek as warmer air briefly surges north.
Emergency managers urge residents to check on elderly neighbors, bring pets indoors, and use space heaters safely. This is a classic early-winter cold punch, and preparation matters.
How low did your wind chill dip today in your neighborhood?
Five-Day Forecast for Milwaukee, WI:
Sat: 7/-3 – Very cold; wind chills -10 to -25.
Sun: 11/3 – Sunny, frigid; subzero chills early.
Mon: 24/15 – Partly sunny, moderating slowly.
Tue: 36/30 – Partly sunny; improving travel conditions.
Wed: 41/35 – Milder; rain chance late.
