Wisconsin — Cold air and rising river levels are creating a two-part hazard this morning, with frost forming on roads and floodwaters lingering near key routes around Milwaukee, slowing travel and threatening low-lying areas.
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan, patchy frost is developing with temperatures near 33°F early, while a Flood Warning remains in effect for the Milwaukee River near Cedarburg and the Root River near Franklin through late Monday evening. Water levels near Franklin are hovering around 8.3 feet, enough to flood low spots like Oakwood Road.
Across Milwaukee, Wauwatosa, and Racine County, drivers may encounter slick patches early where moisture refreezes. This “flash freeze” risk is especially important on bridges along I-43 and I-94. At the same time, flooded roadways near riverbanks remain a concern. Even 6 inches of moving water can sweep a vehicle off the road, making detours essential.
Conditions improve slightly by afternoon with highs near 46°F, though a brief 20% chance of light showers could dampen roads. The chill returns quickly, with temperatures dropping to around 31°F by early Monday, bringing another round of widespread frost.
By Tuesday, a major shift begins. Sunshine pushes highs to 68°F, followed by 60°F Wednesday. That rapid warm-up may accelerate snowmelt upstream and influence river levels, so flooding concerns could linger even as skies clear. Later in the week, shower and thunderstorm chances increase by Thursday and Friday, with precipitation chances near 60%.
Take action now: avoid flooded roads, allow extra stopping distance, and protect early spring plants.
Flood warnings remain active into Monday evening, and additional updates are expected later today as river levels and temperatures fluctuate.
Five Day Forecast for Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Monday: Sunny, high 48°F
Tuesday: Sunny, high 68°F
Wednesday: Sunny, high 60°F
Thursday: Showers likely, high 72°F
Friday: Showers and storms possible, high 67°F
