Milwaukee rolled into Friday under a blanket of clouds and a comfortable 64°F at daybreak, with the city in for a slow warmup. Those clouds are expected to thin out as the day goes on, sending afternoon highs toward 79°F. A southeast lake breeze should keep lakeshore neighborhoods a few degrees cooler, so inland spots will feel a bit warmer than those closer to the water. By later today, look for mostly sunny skies and a noticeably breezy shoreline.
Afternoon Beach And Boat Advisories
If your Friday plans involve the sand or the boat launch, conditions get trickier by evening. A Moderate Swim Risk is in effect for Lake Michigan beaches in Sheboygan and Ozaukee counties, with breaking waves and stronger currents capable of pulling swimmers toward piers and river mouths, according to the National Weather Service beach hazards page.
For those heading out on the water, the National Weather Service also has a Small Craft Advisory posted for nearshore waters north of Port Washington from 4 PM to 10 PM Friday, July 24, 2026, when gusty southeast winds could build 3–4 foot waves; boaters are urged to seek sheltered harbors or stay ashore, according to the National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan.
Weekend Heat And Storm Threat
Temperatures step it up through the weekend, climbing into the mid-80s on Saturday and then into the lower 90s Sunday and Monday. Muggy dew points are expected to push heat-index values to around or just above 100°F by Monday, turning things noticeably steamier. Showers and thunderstorms become increasingly likely from Sunday afternoon into Monday night, and there is potential for stronger or severe storms if rounds of convection develop.
What To Know For Today
For Friday, lake visitors should stick to lifeguarded beaches, stay off breakwalls and away from river outlets, and pay close attention to posted warnings. Inland, expect a warm, partly sunny day with highs near 79°F. If boating, check the latest advisories before heading out, and with a hot, humid stretch on the way, keep water, shade and cooling breaks in mind as the heat builds into early next week.
