Milwaukee is squeezing in one more mild February day, with temperatures starting near 36°F at the airport and climbing into the low to mid 40s under partly cloudy skies. The quiet stretch does not last long, though, as a soaking round of rain moves in tonight and sets the stage for a blustery Wednesday morning commute.
What to Expect Tonight
Rain is likely Tuesday night, with showers becoming steadier toward early Wednesday and new totals of about a tenth to a quarter of an inch expected. Southeast winds around 10 mph will pull in slightly milder air, and a few rumbles of thunder cannot be ruled out. According to the National Weather Service, the heaviest rain should taper by Wednesday morning.
Wind and Lake Impacts Wednesday
The system moves out Wednesday, opening the door for a sharp warm-up with highs near 60°F and southwest winds of 10 to 20 mph. Gusts could reach 35 mph Wednesday afternoon, which may kick up choppy conditions on Lake Michigan and jostle any loose items along the lakeshore. Small Craft Advisories and a Gale Watch are in effect for parts of the lake, so boaters and shoreline visitors will want to keep a close eye on conditions.
Late-Week Transition
Another low-pressure system tracks through Thursday night into Friday, bringing more rain that may mix with snow as colder air returns. Some locations could see up to a half-inch of rain Thursday night, followed by a changeover to light snow Friday morning that could briefly make roads slick. Temperatures then slide back toward a more wintry feel over the weekend, with highs dropping into the 20s and 30s by Sunday.
Where to Get Updates
Plan on an umbrella tonight and a slower go for Wednesday’s morning plans. This update follows our earlier look at Monday’s warm, windy stretch; for background on the recent pattern, see Milwaukee Toasts Washington's Birthday As South Winds Howl. For real-time watches, warnings, and forecast adjustments, check the National Weather Service.
