LA CROSSE, Wis. – After a bright and crisp Saturday, western Wisconsin is heading for a soggy shift as fall warmth gives way to Columbus Day showers and a midweek chill. Early risers this Saturday will find ideal conditions for pumpkin patch visits and fall leaf tours, but rain could complicate Monday travel plans along I-90.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, a quick warm-up Saturday and Sunday will bring highs in the upper 60s to low 70s before clouds and rain move in by Sunday evening. A 60% chance of showers is expected late Sunday into Monday morning, with gusty winds topping 20 mph and damp roads across La Crosse, Onalaska, and Holmen. Drivers planning Columbus Day commutes should allow extra time for slower travel, especially eastbound toward Tomah and beyond.
Cooler, drier air will settle in by midweek as highs drop into the low 60s and lows fall into the low 40s. Light frost is not expected yet, but continued cool mornings hint at a cold snap approaching later in October. Residents are advised to keep outdoor plans flexible and to protect early fall decorations and harvest produce from gusty winds and brief downpours.
With mostly sunny skies returning Wednesday, the back half of the week looks pleasant for leaf viewing and outdoor events before another chance of rain late Thursday.
Five-Day Forecast for La Crosse, WI:
Sat: 68/50 – Sunny; calm winds, perfect for outdoor plans.
Sun: 73/56 – Partly sunny; breezy late with rain developing.
Mon (Columbus Day): 66/42 – Showers likely early; gusty west winds, slower travel.
Tue: 61/42 – Partly sunny; slight chance of showers north.
Wed: 60/42 – Mostly sunny; cooler, light east breeze.
