Minnesota and Wisconsin Brace for a Snowy Winter 2026 as La Niña Strengthens Over the Upper Midwest

MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota — The Upper Midwest is gearing up for a classic La Niña winter as cold Arctic air and frequent snow systems prepare to dominate Minnesota and Wisconsin through early 2026, according to new outlooks from the National Weather Service Twin Cities.

Frequent Arctic Blasts and Persistent Chill

Forecasters say a strong polar jet stream will dip south repeatedly, funneling Arctic air masses across the Great Lakes and northern Plains. The result will be more frequent cold snaps and wind chills below zero, especially from late December through February.

“This setup is textbook La Niña,” forecasters said. “We’ll likely see long stretches of subfreezing temperatures, punctuated by quick warmups and heavy snow bands along the Great Lakes.”

Lake-Effect Snow and Slippery Travel

Areas near Lake Superior — including Duluth, Ashland, and Superior — could experience enhanced lake-effect snowfall, particularly when cold air crosses open water in January.

The National Weather Service warns that heavy snow bursts could reduce visibility along U.S. Highway 2, I-35, and I-94, with road conditions deteriorating quickly during whiteouts.

“This winter won’t necessarily bring record-breaking blizzards,” meteorologists noted, “but rather a series of moderate storms that keep totals near or slightly above seasonal averages.”

Snow Totals Near or Above Normal

Overall snowfall is expected to land 5–15% above seasonal norms across northern Minnesota and Wisconsin.

• Twin Cities: 50–55 inches (near average)
• Duluth and Ashland: 85–95 inches (above average)
• Madison and Milwaukee: 40–50 inches (slightly above average)

While early-season snow may start late, forecasters expect a very active pattern through mid-February, keeping road crews and salt reserves busy statewide.

Residents Urged to Prepare Early

Officials are advising residents to service furnaces, stock emergency kits, and prepare vehicles for potential cold-related issues. The Minnesota and Wisconsin Departments of Transportation have already scheduled extended road treatment operations through winter’s peak months.

“Even short trips can turn dangerous during a whiteout,” safety officials said. “Keep blankets, flashlights, and food in your car in case of unexpected delays.”

Outlook Summary: Cold, Snowy, and Classic La Niña

While southern parts of both states may see periodic thaws, the overall trend points toward a cold, snowy, and active winter — one that could rival the harshest seasons of recent memory.

Forecasters expect a brief late-winter warmup by March, but warn that lingering snowpack and icy conditions may persist into early spring.

For continuing Midwest winter updates, storm forecasts, and regional safety alerts, visit NapervilleLocal.com.