Wisconsin – Bitter air stings exposed skin this morning as wind snaps across frozen sidewalks and quiet streets. Every breath feels sharp. Across southern Wisconsin, winter turns dangerous fast, with life-threatening cold now settling in and holding firm through the start of the weekend.
An Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect across much of southern Wisconsin, including the Milwaukee metro. According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee, wind chills may plunge between 34 and 42 degrees below zero, cold enough to cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.
Temperatures struggle to climb today, even under filtered sun. Actual air temperatures remain in the teens or lower, while steady northwest winds push wind chills deep into dangerous territory. Anyone outside for more than a few minutes will feel it immediately.
Conditions remain harsh into Friday. An Extreme Cold Watch follows Friday afternoon into Saturday morning, with wind chills potentially dropping into the 20s and 30s below zero again. Light snow chances develop late Saturday into Sunday, but even minor snowfall could worsen road conditions as moisture freezes instantly on contact.
Drivers should expect slick spots on bridges, ramps, and untreated roads, especially after any daytime melting. Flash freezing remains a growing concern during afternoon and evening hours. Limit time outdoors, dress in layers, and cover all exposed skin. Pets should stay indoors.
Looking ahead, colder-than-normal air lingers into early next week. National outlooks show below-normal temperatures holding across the Midwest, while precipitation chances gradually rise midweek, keeping winter hazards active.
Five-Day Outlook for Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Today: Partly cloudy, dangerously cold, highs near 18°
- Friday: Sunny but frigid, highs near -4°
- Saturday: Mostly cloudy, slight snow chance, highs near 8°
- Sunday: Mostly cloudy, chance of snow, highs near 15°
- Monday: Partly sunny, still cold, highs near 13°
