A clipper-type storm is poised to impact the states tonight, arriving from the northwest and bringing widespread snowfall. This fast-moving system will introduce snow between 4-7 a.m. Thursday, spreading west to east and coinciding with the morning commute.
As the storm system tracks south and west of Wisconsin, a large swath of snow will overspread the area, with pockets of heavier accumulation likely during the morning and early afternoon. Snowfall rates are expected to diminish into the evening, but not before creating slippery and hazardous travel conditions.
Breezy east-southeast winds at 10-20 mph will contribute to areas of blowing snow, reducing visibility. A Winter Storm Warning has been issued for much of the region, including the Chippewa Valley, where the greatest accumulations are anticipated.
Meanwhile, the Coulee Region, covering areas like La Crosse, falls under a Winter Weather Advisory due to expectations of lighter snow totals. The National Weather Service has emphasized the potential for widespread travel impacts, labeling Thursday a 13 First Alert Weather Day.
Snowfall Accumulations and Distribution
The heaviest snow is forecast to occur across the Chippewa Valley and surrounding areas, where totals of 4–7 inches are expected. As the storm moves southward, snowfall will taper off, with far southern counties such as Monroe and Juneau projected to see 2–4 inches. Uncertainty remains regarding where the heaviest snow bands will develop, and locally higher amounts cannot be ruled out, especially within the warning area.
Anticipated Snowfall Totals:
| Location | Expected Snowfall |
|---|---|
| Chippewa Valley | 4–7 inches |
| Southern Counties | 2–4 inches |
| Coulee Region (e.g., La Crosse) | 3–5 inches (localized lighter areas) |
Note: Totals may vary depending on where heavy snow bands form.
This storm marks the first widespread accumulating snowfall of the season, so extra caution is advised. Slippery conditions are expected not only on major highways like I-94 and US-53, but also on secondary roads. Allow plenty of following distance and avoid sudden stops or turns during travel.
Progression of the Storm and Conditions Into the Weekend
Snow showers will taper off Thursday night, but breezy conditions may sustain blowing snow through the evening. The system will give way to high pressure, building in from the north, which will stabilize the weather on Friday. This transition will bring partly sunny skies and highs in the low 20s, accompanied by a gentle north-northwest breeze.
The winter solstice on Saturday will feature highs near 20 °F (-6.67 °C), under clear skies—a fittingly cold and crisp start to the official winter season. Southerly winds returning on Sunday will moderate temperatures slightly, with highs in the mid-20s and partly sunny skies.
White Christmas Prospects and Early Christmas Week Outlook
After Thursday’s snowfall, the likelihood of a white Christmas has increased significantly. Even with some melting expected over the weekend as temperatures climb slightly above freezing, enough snow should remain to maintain coverage across most of the region.
Early next week, another weather system will approach from the west, potentially bringing light snow or a wintry mix. This system is projected to affect areas like Eau Claire and Black River Falls, but current models indicate minimal accumulations. By Christmas Eve, conditions should dry out under a blanket of clouds, with highs nearing the freezing mark.
Key points about the Christmas week forecast:
- Monday: Chance of light snow/wintry mix; highs near 32 °F.
- Tuesday (Christmas Eve): Cloudy but dry; highs around 32 °F.
- Wednesday (Christmas Day): Cloudy skies, temperatures slightly above average in the low to mid-30s.
Though some melting is possible, Thursday’s storm has laid the foundation for a likely white Christmas across Wisconsin and neighboring areas.
Tips for Travel Safety During Winter Storms
- Plan ahead: Allow extra time for your commute, and check weather updates frequently. Use apps like 511 Wisconsin for real-time road conditions.
- Vehicle safety: Ensure tires are adequately inflated, windshield wipers are functional, and carry an emergency kit with blankets, food, and water.
- Driving precautions: Maintain a safe following distance, avoid sudden braking, and reduce speeds when encountering blowing snow or slick surfaces.
This clipper system marks the season’s first widespread snowfall, with significant travel impacts expected throughout Thursday. With snow totals reaching up to 7 inches in parts of the Chippewa Valley and lighter accumulations in southern regions, caution is advised for commuters.
