Madison, Wisconsin – Wisconsin is heading into a noticeable late-winter warm-up as temperatures trend above normal through mid-February, offering a break from recent cold and improving day-to-day travel across much of the state. The shift could also begin chipping away at lingering snowpack, especially in southern and central areas.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, the Feb. 9–15 outlook favors above-normal temperatures across most of Wisconsin, with the strongest signal focused over southern and central counties. Northern Wisconsin trends closer to seasonal levels but still leans milder than recent weeks.
In southern Wisconsin, including Madison, Janesville, and the Milwaukee metro, afternoon highs are expected to climb into the upper 30s and 40s, easing daytime ice concerns and making for more comfortable commutes. Central Wisconsin, including Wisconsin Rapids and Stevens Point, should also see moderating temperatures, improving conditions on secondary roads.
Far northern Wisconsin, including areas near Superior and Rhinelander, may warm more slowly, but even there, the pattern points away from prolonged bitter cold.
Despite the temperature rebound, the outlook remains dry. No organized snow or rain systems are evident during this stretch, limiting fresh snowfall but also keeping melt-related flooding risks low.
Drivers should remain cautious during overnight and early-morning hours when refreezing is still possible. Additional outlooks will determine how long the mild pattern holds as February continues.
