Bundle Up, Milwaukee: Groundhog Day Brings Brisk Winds and Late-Night Snow

A Chilly Start to February

As Milwaukee wakes up this Monday, February 2, 2026, the city is settling into a classic Wisconsin winter rhythm. Following a slightly milder weekend, today marks a perceptible shift back toward the colder side of the season. Local residents should prepare for a day defined by brisk temperatures, shifting clouds, and a late-night surprise from a low-pressure system moving through the region. Today also marks Groundhog Day, but regardless of what the local groundhog predicts, the meteorological data suggests winter is still firmly in control of the Brew City.

Morning: Brisk and Breezy

The morning hours will see temperatures starting in the low 20s, with some areas seeing a low of 24 degrees Fahrenheit. While January 2026 ended on a particularly frigid note—ranking as the 51st coldest start to a year on record for the city—the beginning of February offers a small reprieve before the next predicted arctic blast. Expect an overcast start to the day, though the cloud cover is predicted to break occasionally, offering glimpses of a pale February sun. Winds will be coming primarily from the northwest, averaging about 8 mph, making the morning air feel sharper than the thermometer suggests.

Afternoon: Peak Temperatures and Wind Gusts

By the afternoon, temperatures are expected to creep into the upper 20s, likely peaking near 28 degrees Fahrenheit. While these temperatures are significantly warmer than the single-digit lows experienced last week, the wind will remain a constant factor. Consistent northwesterly winds are expected throughout the afternoon, with gusts reaching up to 17 mph. These gusts may impact visibility and comfort, particularly for those commuting along the lakefront or through the wind tunnels of the downtown corridor. Those heading out for afternoon errands are encouraged to maintain their winter layers, as the wind chill will keep the real-feel temperature much lower.

Evening and Overnight: Midnight Snowfall

The evening forecast takes a more active turn as a clipper system moves toward the Milwaukee area. While the early evening will see winds calming to a light 6 mph, the tranquility will be short-lived. A short burst of snowfall is predicted to arrive near midnight as a low-pressure front takes hold. While snow totals are expected to be light—likely under half an inch—the timing could result in slick spots for early Tuesday morning commuters. Overnight, the mercury is set to plunge as cold northwestern air pushes back into the state, dropping temperatures to a low of approximately 10 to 16 degrees Fahrenheit by dawn.

Forecast Highlights

• High Temperature: 28°F
• Low Temperature: 10°F
• Wind Conditions: NW winds at 8 mph with gusts peaking at 17 mph.
• Precipitation: 10% chance during the day; 100% chance of a snow burst near midnight.
• Alerts: Exercise caution on the roads after midnight due to the potential for a quick coating of snow and decreasing visibility.