Wisconsin wakes up to biting air that stings exposed skin within minutes. Breath crystallizes, car doors groan, and engines hesitate as dangerous cold settles over southeastern Wisconsin early this morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee, wind chills between −20°F and −30°F are being reported across much of the region. A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect until 10 a.m. CST, covering Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine, Kenosha, Madison, and surrounding communities. These values are cold enough to cause frostbite in as little as 30 minutes.
This morning poses the greatest risk. Wind chills stay near their coldest through early hours, then slowly improve late morning. Even as temperatures rise slightly, wind chills remain between −5°F and −15°F through tonight and into early Monday, keeping winter hazards firmly in place.
Residents should limit time outdoors, cover all exposed skin, and check on elderly neighbors. Bring pets indoors, and protect pipes from freezing. Vehicles may struggle to start, and thin ice buildup from earlier snowmelt could refreeze, creating slick roads and sidewalks.
Travel impacts remain moderate but real. Roads appear dry in spots, yet bridges and untreated surfaces stay icy, especially before midday. Allow extra time on I-94, I-43, and I-41, and keep an emergency kit in your vehicle.
Looking ahead, a gradual warming trend begins Monday afternoon. Wind chills ease into the single digits by Monday night, then turn less extreme Tuesday. By midweek, highs are expected to climb above freezing, offering a brief December thaw.
