A crisp wind and gray horizon mark the start of December in western Wisconsin, where La Crosse residents are stepping into a deepening cold snap that will grip the region through the week. The air this morning feels heavy and biting—18°F with a steady chill off the Mississippi River—and colder nights are on the way as early-season frost locks in.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, light snow remains possible late tonight and again Friday, with temperatures stuck in the 20s by day and low teens or single digits after dark. While accumulations should stay minor—less than an inch—roads may glaze quickly during late-day cool-downs. Drivers should watch for slick spots, especially on rural stretches of Highway 53 and I-90 heading toward Onalaska and Winona.
Meteorologists note a more persistent Arctic air mass building midweek, with Wednesday morning lows near 5°F and wind chills between -5° and -10°. Sunshine briefly returns Thursday, but the reprieve will be deceptive; temperatures remain well below normal for early December.
By Friday, light snow could redevelop as a weak disturbance crosses southern Minnesota and western Wisconsin, signaling a broader winter pattern settling in for the weekend. “Flash freezing” may occur after partial daytime melting—leaving hidden ice patches as temperatures tumble each evening.
Keep layers handy, check tire pressure, and allow extra minutes for morning travel. The first full week of December is shaping up to be the region’s first real taste of winter.
Five-Day Outlook for La Crosse, WI
Today: Mostly cloudy, high near 26°F.
Tonight: Slight snow chance, low near 21°F.
Wednesday: Partly sunny, high 24°F.
Thursday: Sunny, high near 13°F.
Friday: 20–30% snow chance, high 26°F; icy patches possible late.
