Wisconsin wakes up under a dim winter sky, where headlights blur through fog and cold air stings exposed skin. Pavement looks dry in spots, but hidden slick patches linger.
Early Monday morning temperatures sit in the mid-20s across Milwaukee, keeping untreated roads vulnerable. The National Weather Service highlights patchy dense freezing fog as a primary concern, especially before mid-morning. Visibility may drop suddenly on I-94, I-43, and city arterials. Drivers should slow down and increase following distance.
By late morning, clouds thin briefly and temperatures climb toward the upper 30s. That warm-up is short-lived. Rain develops late tonight and continues into Tuesday. With surface temperatures near freezing early, a light glaze from freezing rain remains possible, mainly west and north of downtown. Even small amounts can create black ice on bridges and overpasses.
Tuesday turns milder but unsettled. Highs reach near 40 as rain lingers through midday. Fog may redevelop during breaks in precipitation, keeping travel slow during school drop-offs and afternoon commutes. Winds stay light, which allows moisture to hang near the ground.
Wednesday offers a brief break. Sunshine returns and highs reach the low 40s, giving roads a chance to dry. That window closes again late Thursday into Friday as another round of rain arrives. While snow is not the main threat, colder air later in the week raises concerns for refreezing once rain ends.
This pattern defines January 2026 across southeast Wisconsin: warm surges, wet roads, then freezing air. Plan extra time, especially during early mornings. Keep an ice scraper and patience handy.
Seeing fog or slick spots where you live? Share what conditions look like near you.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Monday: Partly sunny early. Freezing fog risk. High near 38.
Tuesday: Rain likely, some freezing rain early. High near 40.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny and calmer. High near 43.
Thursday: Mostly sunny, late rain chance. High near 46.
Friday: Rain likely. Turning cooler late. High near 40.
