Madison, Wisconsin – A return to deep winter conditions is expected across Wisconsin beginning Thursday as a powerful cold front sweeps through the region, bringing increasing snow chances and sharply colder temperatures that could impact travel through the weekend and into early next week.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, Wisconsin is likely to see near- to above-normal snowfall from Thursday through Monday as Arctic air settles across the Upper Midwest. Temperatures are expected to fall well below seasonal averages, creating favorable conditions for accumulating snow and persistent lake-effect activity near Lake Superior and Lake Michigan.
Northern Wisconsin, including Ashland, Hurley, and Eagle River, faces the highest risk for steady snow and periods of reduced visibility. Snowfall may become more frequent as colder air deepens, with lake-enhanced snow bands possible in northern and northeastern counties. Farther east, areas near Green Bay and Door County could also see localized lake-effect snow develop at times.
Across southern and central Wisconsin, including Madison, Milwaukee, La Crosse, and Eau Claire, snow chances increase late this week as the cold front moves through. While totals may vary, even lighter snowfall combined with plunging temperatures could create slick roads, icy patches, and hazardous travel conditions, especially overnight and during morning commutes.
Major travel corridors such as Interstate 90, Interstate 94, Interstate 43, and U.S. Highway 41 could see deteriorating conditions during snow bursts or periods of blowing snow. Gusty winds behind the front may further reduce visibility in open areas.
Residents are encouraged to prepare for winter driving, limit non-essential travel during snow events, and take precautions against the cold. This colder, snowier pattern is expected to persist into early next week, with additional advisories or warnings possible as conditions evolve.
