La Crosse, WI – Thick, gray clouds roll over the Mississippi River Valley this morning as calm air gives way to an approaching winter storm. By nightfall, the quiet will break — snow will fall steadily across southwest Wisconsin and southeast Minnesota, coating roads and rooftops in the season’s first meaningful accumulation.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 6 p.m. Saturday until 6 a.m. Sunday. Snow will move in late this afternoon and intensify through the evening, with 2 to 6 inches expected, highest near Winona, La Crosse, Tomah, and Monroe. The heaviest snowfall rates — around 1 inch per hour — are likely between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m., with blowing snow reducing visibility in open areas.
Drivers on I-90, Highway 14, and Highway 61 should plan for slippery, snow-covered roads and extended travel times. The National Weather Service advises giving yourself extra time if traveling tonight or early Sunday. Wind chills will hover in the single digits, making even short outdoor exposure brisk and biting.
The snow will taper early Sunday, leaving behind a blanket of light, powdery snow. Temperatures remain cold through early week, with another system possible Monday night into Tuesday that could bring renewed snow chances and icy travel.
5-Day Outlook:
- Sunday: Clearing, high 15°F, low 1°F.
- Monday: Mostly cloudy, high 22°F, snow chance late.
- Tuesday: Rain/snow mix possible, high 36°F.
- Wednesday: Snow showers, high 28°F.
- Thursday: Mostly cloudy, high 20°F.
