Wisconsin’s winter tightens its grip along the Mississippi River this morning.
Breath hangs in the air. Sidewalks creak under boots. Engines idle longer than usual as La Crosse wakes up under brutal cold.
Temperatures sit near −17 degrees early, with wind chills well below zero making even short trips uncomfortable. Calm winds help slightly, but the cold remains sharp enough to cause problems fast, especially for anyone outdoors too long.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, dangerously cold conditions linger through the morning before modest improvement later today. Afternoon highs struggle to reach zero, keeping frostbite concerns elevated and limiting snowmelt. Any melted snow refreezes quickly, creating slick patches on untreated roads and parking lots.
Travel remains manageable but risky. Bridges and shaded areas along Highway 35 and Highway 53 freeze first. Drivers should slow down and allow extra braking distance. Keep an emergency kit handy in case of a stalled vehicle.
Sunday offers little relief. Sunshine helps, but highs top out near 6 degrees, with wind chills still dipping below zero at times. By Monday, temperatures finally climb into the low teens, easing stress on vehicles and infrastructure.
Midweek trends point to gradual moderation. Highs rise into the teens and lower 20s by Tuesday and Wednesday. Nights remain cold, so refreezing stays a concern each evening.
Looking ahead, longer-range outlooks suggest colder-than-normal air holds across Wisconsin late next week, even as storm chances remain limited. Winter remains firmly in control.
Dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and check on neighbors and pets. How cold did it feel when you stepped outside this morning?
Five-Day Outlook: La Crosse, Wisconsin
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, cold. High near 6°F
- Monday: Sunny. High near 11°F
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny. High near 13°F
- Wednesday: Partly sunny. High near 11°F
- Thursday: Mostly sunny. High near 12°F
