Madison, WI – Wisconsin is heading toward a colder and potentially snowy holiday stretch as the latest NOAA Week 3–4 Outlook signals below-normal temperatures from December 20 through January 2. The timing aligns directly with Christmas and New Years, raising the likelihood of wintry travel impacts across much of the state.
According to NOAA, a broad cold pocket is expected to settle over Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, Iowa, northern Illinois, and the Dakotas, keeping temperatures low enough to support snowfall throughout the period. Even with areas showing equal chances for near-normal precipitation, the colder air mass increases the odds that any incoming systems will produce snow rather than rain.
For precipitation, central and northern Wisconsin fall near the equal-chances zone, meaning snowfall will depend heavily on storm tracks. Southern Wisconsin trends slightly drier, but given the cold temperatures, any precipitation that does develop will likely fall as light to moderate snow, especially around Christmas weekend. Lake-effect snow bands may also become active along Lake Superior, with localized totals possible.
From holiday shopping to family travel, residents should prepare for slick roads, occasional bursts of snow, and reduced visibility between Dec. 20–Jan 2. Even minor systems could produce impactful travel conditions due to the widespread below-normal temperature pattern.
Forecasters will refine storm-by-storm details in the days leading up to Christmas and New Years. Residents are advised to monitor updated forecasts and plan travel flexibility where possible.
