Weekend Weather: A Chilly Start to 2026

The first weekend of 2026 is off to a frosty start. The skies are gray, and light snow is falling across the region. This isn't a heavy snowstorm, though. Just a few flurries that might leave a thin layer of snow, maybe half an inch at most. By mid-morning, the snow should stop, but the clouds will stick around, making it feel gloomy. The good news is that roads are in decent shape. No major travel issues are expected today, so it's a good day to run errands or visit friends. But don't get too comfortable, because things are about to change.As we head into Sunday, a weather system is moving in from the west. A warm front is also approaching from the south. This means temperatures will start to climb, and precipitation will move in during the afternoon. In the Chippewa Valley, it might start as snow, but it won't stay that way for long. Expect a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain. It won't be a lot, but it could make some roads slippery if you're out and about on Sunday. The good news is that this wintry mix should clear out before Monday morning. However, there might still be some icy spots on the roads, so be careful if you're heading out early. Looking ahead, temperatures will continue to rise into the new week. The upper-level air pattern is expected to flatten out, which usually means more stable weather. So, while the start of 2026 is chilly, things are looking up.