Wisconsin – Headlights reflect off glazed pavement and bundled breath hangs in the air as winter tightens its grip across southeast Wisconsin. The first full week of 2026 opens with a messy mix that could turn routine drives slick in a hurry.
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan, a wintry mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain develops later today, especially north of I-94. Light freezing drizzle may follow into tonight, with slick travel conditions possible heading into Monday morning. Temperatures stay locked below freezing for much of the day, hovering in the upper 20s.
In Milwaukee, clouds thicken and light precipitation spreads in by afternoon. Accumulations remain light, but even a thin glaze can create problems. Bridges, ramps, and untreated roads may ice over quickly. Drivers should slow down along I-94, I-43, and I-41, especially during the evening travel window.
Conditions stay hazardous tonight as freezing rain chances continue. Patchy freezing fog may also develop, reducing visibility and adding another layer of risk for early commuters. Plan extra time and keep headlights on, even if roads appear only wet.
Monday brings gradual improvement. Highs climb into the upper 30s, helping melt lingering ice during daylight. Still, refreezing remains possible after dark where moisture lingers. Tuesday turns milder, reaching the low 40s with rain chances, easing winter’s grip for now.
Looking ahead, meteorologists continue tracking a more active winter pattern later this month across the Great Lakes. Heavier snow becomes more likely between January 17 and 30. For now, southeast Wisconsin balances between thaw and freeze.
Daylight is slowly returning. By late January, Milwaukee gains nearly 40 extra minutes of sunlight, a welcome shift during deep winter.
Heading out today or early Monday? Tell us how road conditions look where you are.
Five-Day Outlook for Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Today: Wintry mix develops, high near 29°F
- Monday: Mostly cloudy, high near 38°F
- Tuesday: Chance of rain, high near 41°F
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 42°F
- Thursday: Slight chance of rain, high near 45°F
