Wisconsin weather turns dangerous fast as winter tightens its grip across the Green Bay area. Pavement darkens, winds sharpen, and temperatures slide toward freezing, setting the stage for slippery travel and rapid changes today.
According to the National Weather Service, a strong winter system tracks just north of northeast Wisconsin, pulling in moisture and colder air. Rain develops today, then changes to freezing rain and snow late, especially before sunrise. Even light ice can create outsized problems on untreated roads.
Southern Brown County faces a risk of ice accretion, while areas north and west could see several inches of snow by Thursday morning, particularly toward Vilas County. Gusty winds continue, adding to reduced visibility during heavier bursts.
Drivers should watch conditions closely on I-41, Route 172, and Highway 54. Bridges and overpasses freeze first. Slushy spots may glaze over quickly as temperatures dip below 32 degrees. Slow down early and leave extra distance.
Thursday brings another round of impacts. Rain and snow linger, followed by a flash freeze Thursday afternoon and evening as colder air pours in. Wet roads could turn icy fast, especially in shaded or untreated areas. Hazardous travel is likely during the evening commute.
By Friday, skies clear but winter settles in firmly. Highs struggle near 20 degrees, with morning wind chills in the teens. Light snow chances return Friday night into early Saturday, keeping slick spots possible.
Looking ahead to Christmas travel weekend, conditions stay cold but quieter. Saturday reaches the low 30s with a small snow chance early. Sunday turns mostly sunny but remains cold, with highs near 16 and lows near 5.
Five-Day Outlook for Green Bay
- Today: Rain developing, turning icy late, high near 28
- Thursday: Rain/snow, flash freeze risk, high near 34 then falling
- Friday: Partly sunny, cold, high near 20
- Saturday: Chance of snow early, high near 31
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, bitter cold, high near 16
