GREEN BAY, Wis. — A round of hazardous winter weather is affecting Green Bay and much of northeast Wisconsin on Thursday as rain, freezing drizzle and snow combine to create slick travel conditions before colder air settles in heading into the weekend.
The National Weather Service said areas of freezing rain or freezing drizzle were possible early Thursday, particularly across north-central and northeast Wisconsin. Minor ice accumulations may develop on untreated roads, bridges and sidewalks, leading to hazardous travel during the morning hours. Rain is expected to transition to snow later Thursday afternoon and evening as temperatures fall, with brief snow squalls possible.
Forecasters warned that rapidly falling temperatures could cause a flash freeze, allowing wet road surfaces to ice over quickly from mid-afternoon through early evening. Visibility may be reduced at times during heavier snow showers, and motorists are urged to slow down and allow extra stopping distance.
By Thursday night, colder air will settle into the region, with lows dropping into the lower teens. Friday is expected to be partly sunny but cold, with highs near 20 degrees. Additional light snow is possible Friday night into early Saturday, which could again create slippery conditions, especially in far northern Wisconsin and Door County.
The weekend looks cold but quieter overall. Saturday will be mostly cloudy with highs around the lower 30s, followed by clearing Saturday night and frigid lows near zero. Sunday is expected to be sunny but cold, with highs only reaching the mid-teens.
Looking ahead to the holiday week, Christmas Eve falls on Wednesday, and early indications point to a more settled weather pattern for Green Bay. Forecasts currently suggest mostly cloudy skies with highs near the low 30s and no significant precipitation expected. While temperatures will remain seasonably cold, the calmer conditions could be favorable for holiday travel and outdoor plans compared to the active weather earlier in the week.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts, use caution when traveling today, and prepare for rapidly changing road conditions as winter weather continues to affect the region.
