Wisconsin residents should prepare for a significant drop in temperatures and potential snowfall this weekend as an arctic air mass moves into the region. The National Weather Service advises residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions.

Friday, January 17
- Madison: Turning cloudy, windy, and mild, with a high of 46°F (8°C). Evening temperatures will drop to 17°F (-9°C).
- Milwaukee: Mostly sunny and windy, reaching a high of 46°F (8°C) and a low of 20°F (-7°C).
- Green Bay: Breezy and mild with some sun, then turning cloudy; southerly winds can cause shore ice to break loose; exercise caution on the ice. High of 42°F (6°C), low of 17°F (-9°C).
Saturday, January 18
- Madison: Cloudy, breezy, and much colder; prolonged cold wave on the way; bundle up. High of 22°F (-6°C), low of -1°F (-18°C).
- Milwaukee: Cloudy, breezy, and much colder with a couple of flurries. High of 24°F (-4°C), low of 5°F (-15°C).
- Green Bay: Cloudy, breezy, and much colder. High of 19°F (-7°C), low of 0°F (-18°C).
Sunday, January 19
- Madison: Partly sunny and bitterly cold; extreme cold can be dangerous for outdoor activities. High of 3°F (-16°C), low of -6°F (-21°C).
- Milwaukee: Partly sunny and frigid; breezy in the afternoon; start of a prolonged and extreme cold wave. High of 9°F (-13°C), low of -3°F (-20°C).
- Green Bay: Bitterly cold with increasing amounts of sun; start of a prolonged and extreme cold wave. High of 5°F (-15°C), low of -8°F (-22°C).
Safety Precautions
- Protect Plumbing: Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing and potential bursts.
- Ensure Adequate Heating: Verify that heating systems are functioning properly; stock up on necessary supplies.
- Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Ensure that elderly neighbors and family members have sufficient warmth and resources.
- Exercise Caution Outdoors: Limit time spent outside; dress in layers to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
- Drive Safely: Anticipate slick road conditions due to snow and ice; reduce speeds and maintain safe distances.

Residents are advised to stay informed through local news outlets and the National Weather Service for ongoing updates. Taking proactive measures is crucial to ensure safety during this severe weather event.