La Crosse, Wisconsin – A stretch of sunny, calm summer weather in western Wisconsin is set to shift by Wednesday night, with thunderstorms expected to arrive just ahead of the July 4th weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, scattered storms could begin late Wednesday night, increasing in coverage and intensity through Friday night. While no severe weather is currently forecast, Friday night carries the highest chance for thunderstorm activity. Portions of Highway 61 and Highway 35 near La Crosse may see slick roads or brief downpours Friday evening, complicating holiday travel plans.
Expect mostly clear skies through Tuesday evening, followed by increasing clouds and a 30% chance of storms overnight Wednesday. Thursday afternoon brings another round of scattered thunderstorms, with warm, humid air lingering into the holiday. Independence Day itself may start off sunny in La Crosse, but isolated afternoon storms are possible. Winds could gust up to 20 mph.
Residents planning fireworks or outdoor events should monitor conditions closely and consider flexible plans. It’s also a good idea to keep devices charged and secure loose outdoor items ahead of any gusty weather late Friday.
Five-Day Forecast (July 2–6):
- Wednesday (Jul 2): Sunny, high near 87°F.
- Wednesday Night: 30% chance of storms, low around 66°F.
- Thursday (Jul 3): Storms possible after 1 p.m., high 87°F.
- Friday (Jul 4): 50% chance of thunderstorms after 1 p.m., breezy, high 88°F.
- Saturday (Jul 5): Partly sunny, high 86°F. Wind gusts up to 21 mph.
- Sunday (Jul 6): Mostly sunny, high 81°F.
