LA CROSSE, Wis. – A sharp contrast defines the region’s weather today—fire danger by afternoon, flurries possible by the weekend. Strong southerly winds and dry air will raise wildfire risks across southwest Wisconsin, northeast Iowa, and southeast Minnesota before a surge of colder, wetter air sweeps in Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, elevated fire weather conditions are likely Thursday afternoon as gusts reach 25 to 35 mph and humidity drops to near 25 percent. Counties including Monroe, Vernon, Crawford, and Grant are under a Special Weather Statement for critical fire conditions. Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning, secure trailer chains, and properly dispose of cigarettes. Even a small spark could spread quickly in these dry, breezy conditions.
By Friday, winds will ease and moisture will increase, setting the stage for a round of light rain followed by a possible rain-to-snow changeover Saturday. While no significant accumulation is expected, grassy surfaces could see the first dusting of the season. Travel late Saturday into early Sunday may be briefly slick, especially along I-90 and higher ridges west of town.
Temperatures will drop steadily through the weekend, with highs in the low 40s Saturday and only mid-30s Sunday. The chill will deepen into early next week as an Arctic push drops lows near the teens by Tuesday—just in time for Veterans Day ceremonies.
For now, the message is mixed but clear: stay cautious today, stay warm this weekend, and get ready for the first real hint of winter in the Driftless Region.
Five-Day Forecast for La Crosse, WI:
Thu: 55/42 – Breezy, dry; elevated fire danger.
Fri: 56/31 – Mostly sunny; mild, winds easing.
Sat: 41/20 – Rain then snow mix; colder late.
Sun: 34/19 – Partly cloudy; light flurries possible.
Mon: 38/23 – Sunny, cold; early winter chill continues.
