Breezy With Chance of Showers Overnight -Bill Graul

WHAT WE’RE TRACKING:

A strong cold front will slowly approach our area overnight, likely not reaching the La Crosse area until around the 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. timeframe Friday morning. Before it arrives, expect breezy and mild conditions for much of tonight with the chance for scattered showers after midnight. Lows will range from the 40s north/west to the upper 50s south/east.

HAVE THE RAIN GEAR HANDY FRIDAY & SATURDAY:

The cold front will slowly track east across the region on Friday, with a weak disturbance lifting northeast along it. This will bring periods of rain to the region on Friday, with the greatest chances near and south/east of La Crosse. Highs will be set in the morning in most areas with readings in the mid-upper 40s north/west to the low 60s south/east, then temps will gradually fall through the day.

A stronger disturbance will then lift northeast along the almost stalled out front Friday night and Saturday… bringing more periods of rain. Rather blustery Saturday as well, with gusty winds shifting from the NE to the W/SW as low pressure lifts northeast over our area. It will be cool Saturday with highs in the mid 40s to low 50s. Some snowflakes could even mix in over parts of Minnesota and Iowa before the rain tapers late Saturday afternoon or evening.

SOAKING RAIN FOR MANY:

Rainfall totals through Saturday evening will likely be in the .50″ to 2.00″ range for much of our area, with the greatest chance for higher rain totals south and east of La Crosse. The flooding threat is low since it’s been so dry across the region. However, watch for minor street flooding due to leaves clogging storm drains.

LOOKING AHEAD:

Sunday and Monday still look dry with seasonable highs in the low-mid 50s with a mix of clouds and sun. Chance of showers on Election Day Tuesday with highs in the mid-upper 50s. A bit milder next Wednesday and Thursday with highs in the low 60s. Isolated showers possible Thursday. Turning cooler with chance of showers next Friday with highs in the 40s. This could be the start of a much chillier stretch of weather into mid-November. Stay tuned!

Have a great Thursday night! -Meteorologist Bill Graul