Madison, Wisconsin – A renewed surge of Arctic air is expected to sweep across Wisconsin beginning Thursday, bringing the risk of subzero wind chills, icy roads, and periods of snow through the following Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, Wisconsin is favored to see well below-normal temperatures during the Jan. 15–21 period as a broad Arctic pattern settles across the Upper Midwest. While overall precipitation is expected to remain near seasonal averages, persistent cold will allow snow and ice to linger on roadways, sidewalks, and parking lots.
Northern Wisconsin is expected to bear the brunt of the cold. Communities including Rhinelander, Eagle River, and Ashland could see extended stretches of subzero wind chills, particularly overnight and during the early morning hours. Lake-effect snow off Lake Superior may periodically reduce visibility along U.S. 2 and Highway 13, making travel hazardous at times.
Central Wisconsin, including Wausau, Stevens Point, and Wisconsin Rapids, is also expected to see temperatures fall sharply below normal. Even light snow could create slick conditions on Interstate 39 and surrounding state highways as repeated overnight freezing limits melting. In eastern Wisconsin, including Green Bay and the Fox Valley, icy roads may develop quickly during commute periods if snow showers move through.
Southern Wisconsin, including Madison, Milwaukee, and Janesville, may avoid the coldest air but will still contend with a prolonged stretch of bitter temperatures. Black ice remains a concern on Interstate 90, Interstate 94, and urban roadways during early morning hours.
Residents are urged to prepare now by checking heating systems, insulating exposed pipes, and keeping winter emergency kits in vehicles. Limiting outdoor exposure during late-night and early-morning hours will be critical if wind chill advisories are issued.
Cold-related alerts and possible winter weather advisories may be issued as confidence increases, with additional updates expected as the Arctic pattern settles in across Wisconsin.
