La Crosse, WI – An unseasonably warm day is underway in La Crosse, where temperatures are projected to reach near 80 degrees Tuesday afternoon, far above typical October highs in the 50s. Local residents are urged to prepare for an abrupt change, as heavy rainfall and cooler temperatures are forecast for midweek.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, current temperatures range from the mid-50s to the upper 60s throughout the area, pushing towards records for the highest minimum temperatures on October 29. These warm conditions, last seen in the 1980s across much of Wisconsin, will persist through Tuesday night with a low around 68.
The warm spell will end abruptly on Wednesday, as showers and thunderstorms are expected by the afternoon. Forecasters warn that some storms may bring heavy rain, with rainfall totals potentially exceeding one inch in certain areas. Thunderstorms are expected to persist into Wednesday night, with gusts reaching up to 22 mph.
The cooling trend will continue Thursday, with daytime highs dropping sharply to around 52. Showers are likely into Thursday night, followed by clearing skies as the system moves out. By Friday, residents can expect a mostly sunny day with a high near 52, though nighttime temperatures will dip to around 35, much closer to seasonal averages.
Looking toward the weekend, the region will see a mix of sun and clouds with highs in the 50s. There’s a 40 percent chance of showers Saturday afternoon. Travelers and commuters should prepare for possible wet roadways, especially along Route 53 and other major roads in the La Crosse area, as heavy rain on Wednesday could lead to slippery conditions and reduced visibility.
