Wisconsin — Light snow and mist blur the riverfront this morning as cold air settles into western Wisconsin. Headlights glow through low visibility, and pavement looks wet now, but conditions are primed to turn icy fast.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, snow showers are expected mainly this afternoon. Brief bursts could sharply reduce visibility, especially along Highway 16, Highway 35, and nearby rural roads. Accumulations remain light, but timing matters. Even a short burst of snow can slick up untreated surfaces during peak travel hours.
Winds increase later today, shifting conditions quickly. Any moisture left behind may freeze hard after sunset. Flash freezing becomes a real concern tonight as temperatures drop and winds pull colder air into the region.
Thursday brings a deceptive calm. Sunshine returns, but it does little to help. Afternoon highs struggle near the low teens, and winds keep wind chills well below zero. By Thursday night, the core of Arctic air arrives.
An Extreme Cold Watch remains in effect from late Thursday night through Saturday morning. Wind chills could plunge 20 to 40 degrees below zero across the La Crosse area. At those levels, frostbite can develop on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes. Outdoor plans should be limited. Dress in layers, cover faces and hands, and keep pets indoors.
Friday stays brutally cold. Highs fall below zero, and the cold holds firm into Saturday. Any snow that falls today or Thursday will remain locked in place, keeping roads slick and shaded areas icy.
Looking ahead, the 6–10 day outlook keeps temperatures below normal into late January. While storm chances increase next week across the central U.S., cold air remains entrenched in the Upper Midwest.
Five-Day Outlook for La Crosse, Wisconsin
- Today: Snow showers at times, high near 24
- Tonight: Colder, low near 5
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 13
- Friday: Extreme cold, high near -7
- Saturday: Very cold, mostly sunny, high near 0
