Milwaukee, WI – Wisconsin is bracing for a wintry Thanksgiving weekend as Arctic air pours across the Great Lakes, triggering periods of heavy snow and dangerous wind chills from November 28–30. The setup threatens to disrupt Black Friday travel and post-holiday plans, especially across northern and central parts of the state.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Milwaukee/Sullivan and Green Bay, a moderate to high risk of heavy snow is in place for northern Wisconsin, where lake-effect and system snow will persist through Saturday. Totals of 6–10 inches are possible from Rhinelander to Wausau, with 3–6 inches in Green Bay and 1–3 inches in the Milwaukee metro. Wind gusts up to 40 mph will cause drifting snow and near-whiteout conditions at times.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, hazardous travel is likely along I-41, I-43, and U.S. 51 Friday into Saturday. Visibility may drop to near zero in heavier snow bands, and roads could become snow-covered and icy overnight. Air travelers through Green Bay and Milwaukee should also prepare for possible de-icing delays.
Temperatures will remain well below normal through the weekend, with highs in the 20s and lows in the teens statewide. Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel during heavier snow, dress in layers, and check updated advisories before heading out for Black Friday shopping.
