Weather and climate conditions this week in Wisconsin
Here are this week’s take-home points about the weather. As a reminder, AgWOW reports will be published weekly throughout the growing season. Scroll down for the full report.
Additionally, we’re collecting user feedback. Regardless of whether it’s your first time here or if you are a regular user, we’d love to hear from you!
Key Points
One Month Conditions
- Temperatures were 2-5°F below normal across most of Wisconsin last week. This contrasts with the warmer-than-normal temperatures that we have experienced over the past month.
- Precipitation totals were highest in localized areas of east-central and southeast Wisconsin, with totals of 0.5-1”. Totals were very low further west and north (0.1” or less).
Impact
- Soil moisture levels at the 4” depth across UW research farm stations (Wisconet) decreased from last week due to relatively low rainfall totals for this time of year.
- Satellite-based soil moisture models indicate near-normal moisture levels the 0-100cm soil profile across most of the state. The latest USDA NASS report indicates that most of the topsoil in the state has adequate or surplus moisture.
- There were roughly 4 days last week that were suitable for fieldwork, but corn, soybean, and oat planting are all behind the normal pace.
- Wisconsin remains drought-free with no changes in drought coverage or severity in the state compared to last week.
Outlook
- There are multiple chances for rainfall over the next week statewide, but predicted totals do not look to be high for this time of year.
- Probabilities of overnight lows at or below 32°F remain moderately likely over the next week for folks in the central and northern counties. Freeze is less likely in the south but still be sure to check your local forecast.
- Mid-May outlooks are showing a lean towards conditions being warmer and wetter than normal but take note that this is not a strong lean (33-40% for most).
- Outlooks for late spring into summer (May-July) indicate uncertainty about temperatures and precipitation, showing equal chances for above-, near-, or below-normal conditions.
Agronomic, Fruit and Vegetable Considerations
Field Conditions
- Avoid trafficking fields in wet conditions to prevent compaction and rutting.
- Keep livestock out of critical and sensitive areas with soft, muddy ground, see this article on the value of keeping cattle clean.
- 2-4″ soil temperatures are warming with increased temperatures, especially in the southern half of the state. Soil temperatures should be consistently at 50 degrees F to reduce the risk of imbibitional chilling and soil-borne pathogens. Planting is underway in Southern WI.
- With continuing potential for frost/freeze conditions, monitor corn and soybean closely. Corn’s growing point remains underground until the V5 stage; however, exposed leaf tissue can be damaged, slowing early development and reducing uniformity. Soybean plants at the cotyledon stage are more resilient to cold temperatures. Conduct stand counts to determine population. See the corn and soybean replant guides.
Forage Management
- Alfalfa is greening up nicely in Southern WI. Cool temperatures will slow growth. Consider using a PEAQ (Predictive Equations for Alfalfa Quality) stick to estimate relative feed value as you decide when to make the first cut.
- As scissor clips begin throughout the state, find UW and UMN quality data using the Alfalfa Harvest Alert dashboard.
Pest Management
- Start scouting fields on foot to note which early weed species are emerging.
- Be observant of black cutworm and true armyworm moths migrating through the state. Check the DATCP Pest Trap Network Maps.
- Ensure temperatures are conducive to herbicide applications. Pre-emergent herbicides require moisture for activation.
- Monitor insect degree days. Start scouting for alfalfa weevil at 300 DD. Weevil larvae have the greatest impact (quality and yield) on first and second alfalfa cuts. Be sure to walk fields looking for evidence of this pest.
Manure Applications
- Reminder of Wisconsin’s NR 151 Runoff Rules with the timing of manure spreading and current runoff levels. Check DATCP Runoff Risk Advisory Forecast.
Small Grains
- Assess winter grain stands. Check winter wheat for any signs of winterkill. Reports have been minimal.
- Avoid fertilizer applications in wet and cool conditions. Nitrogen loss is greater in wet conditions. Review small grain fertility. Feekes 5 is the stage where fertilizer and herbicide applications should take place. Review growth stages here.
Fruit Considerations
- During bloom, delay insecticide applications until petal fall to protect pollinators.
- Wisconsin fruit growers can reference the Midwest Fruit Pest Management Guide for a list of registered products and recommended best practices. View the MFPMG Online or order a hard copy here: MFPMG Hard Copy.
- Apple growers can reference the NEWA weather station network to monitor disease infection events. Make sure to keep track of green tip and petal fall dates. Check out your nearest weather station: NEWA Weather Station Network (Cornell).
- Growers may consider visually scouting for mites and aphids. Use a hand lens to ID mites and check the undersides of leaves for aphids. Watch for curled, wrinkled, bronzed or stunted leaves.
- Growers may consider visually scouting for lepidopteran larvae feeding on young leaf material and/or hanging pheromone monitoring traps.
- Growers with historic populations of plum curculio or tarnished plant bug may consider monitoring orchard perimeters and/or hanging monitoring traps.
- Need insect lures or traps? Place your order here: https://www.greatlakesipm.com/
Vegetable Considerations
- The risk of western flower thrips is starting to increase in southern WI. Early detection is key as control can be very difficult. Iowa State has a few useful videos on scouting: tip on finding thrips and tips on spotting thrips damage on cucumber transplants. One option to reduce risk is dipping plants in a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap right before transplanting. Some other control options include row cover, reflective mulch and weed management as weeds such as chickweed and lambsquarters serve as alternative hosts.
- Damping off of seedlings is caused by Rhizoctonia, Fusarium and Pythium. These pathogens are soil borne and thrive in cool and wet conditions. Seedlings are susceptible for a short time following emergence, but susceptibility declines quickly as the plants grow. Infection leads to lower stem girdling and collapse. Some treatment options include planting as shallowly as agronomically allowable to encourage quick germination, not overwatering, and using fungicides treated seed.
- Risk of crop damage from asparagus beetle larvae is very high for central WI. Northern WI should expect their risk to increase in the next week. Risk is starting to decrease in very southern WI. When scouting, sample twenty plants from five different areas to determine if you have reached the threshold for treatment. Row cover can be a good option to exclude the beetles if eggs have not already been laid.
- Imported cabbageworm adults, white butterflies with black markings on wingtips, are now active in southern and central WI. Start scouting for eggs which are laid as a single egg that are yellow to orange in color. Young plants can be particularly susceptible to damage so either use insect netting to exclude adults if they are not yet active in your area or time insecticide spray to larval hatch.
- Onion maggot risk is now very high in southern and into south central WI as enough growing degree days have accumulated for peak adult flight activity. Risk will be increasing around Eau Claire, Stevens Point, Appleton and other cities in similar latitudes in the next week. Use the Vegetable Disease and Insect Forecasting Network to see the risk in your area. Preventative soil insecticide applications are recommended for the first generation larvae if damage to the last year’s crop was over 5-10%. For small plantings of onions, row cover can be effective if adults are not yet active in your area.
- Risk from the first generation of adult seed corn maggots is now high or very high in central and north central WI. Risk is now low for southern WI with the exception of cities close to Lake Michigan. One way to reduce risk is increasing the rate at which plants germinate and grow. A few ways to do that is waiting to plant until soil temps are at least 50°F before planting susceptible crops and planting seeds as shallowly as agronomically possible. More management options can be found here.
- Cabbage maggot risk is also high or very high in southern WI extending up to La Crosse and WI Dells. Cabbage maggots overwinter as larvae in the top several inches of soil. When the adults emerge, they are attracted to freshly tilled fields with decaying organic matter. They thrive in wet and cool conditions. When possible, till in cover crops 2 to 3 weeks before planting to reduce attractiveness and similar to seed corn maggot management, wait to plant until soils temps are above 50°F for faster germination.
- Black cutworm moths will likely start migrating into WI in May. Check the DATCP Pest Trap Network Maps.
- The deadline for disposing of potato cull piles is May 20th. This includes waste piles of harvested potatoes, seed cutting slivers, and storage remnants. Find more details in the Vegetable Crop Update newsletter.
Dive deeper into each report section by clicking a topic below.
Precipitation Trends
7 Day Precipitation
Image Description ↓
Color-coded radar map centered on Wisconsin showing estimated rainfall from April 28 to May 5, 2026. Most of central and western Wisconsin is shaded dark to medium blue, corresponding to approximately 0.25–1 inch of rain. Eastern and northeastern Wisconsin show green areas indicating higher totals, generally 1–3 inches, with localized patches near Green Bay and along Lake Michigan. A legend on the right displays rainfall ranges from less than 0.01 inch up to 15–20 inches, using a gradient from light gray/yellow through blues, greens, and purples. Title text reads “Radar Estimates (Rain) 4/28/26–5/5/26.”
Image Description ↓
Map of Wisconsin titled “Accumulated Precipitation: Percent of 1991–2020 Normals” for April 29 to May 5, 2026. Colors represent percent of normal precipitation: gray and red shades (0–25%) dominate western and parts of central Wisconsin, indicating below-normal rainfall. Orange to yellow areas (25–75%) cover much of central Wisconsin. Light green to green shades (100–150%) appear mainly in eastern Wisconsin, including near Milwaukee and Green Bay, showing above-normal precipitation. A color bar legend at the bottom ranges from 0% to 150%. Source text reads: “PRISM Weather Data and NCEI Normals: 1991–2020,” generated May 6, 2026.
- Precipitation was below normal across the state last week. In the wettest regions, totals were 50-75% of normal.
- The heaviest precipitation was in localized areas of east-central and southeast Wisconsin, with totals of 0.5-1”.
- Further to the west and north, precipitation totals were very low (0.1” or less). Compared to normal, totals in these regions were at or below 10% of normal.
30 Day Precipitation Total and Departure from Normals
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Map titled “Accumulated Precipitation (in)” showing total rainfall across Wisconsin from April 5 to May 4, 2026. A color scale at the bottom ranges from 0 to 15 inches. Most of central and eastern Wisconsin is shaded medium to dark blue, indicating roughly 3–6 inches of precipitation. Northern Wisconsin and parts of the west show green to dark green shading, indicating higher totals of about 6–10 inches. Lighter blue areas appear in southern Wisconsin, closer to 2–4 inches. Source text reads “PRISM Weather Data,” generated Tuesday, May 5, 2026, by the Midwestern Regional Climate Center.
Image Description ↓
Map titled “Accumulated Precipitation: Percent of 1991–2020 Normals” for April 5 to May 4, 2026. Color shading shows percent of normal precipitation: yellow/orange areas in the southwest indicate below normal (about 25–75%). Greens dominate central and northern Wisconsin, indicating near to above normal (100–150%). Blue shades across parts of central and eastern Wisconsin, including near Green Bay and a band south of Madison toward Milwaukee, indicate well above normal totals (150–300%+). Legend ranges from 0% to 400%. Source: PRISM Weather Data and NCEI Normals (1991–2020); generated May 5, 2026.
- Totals of 4-8” were common across most of Wisconsin, excluding portions of the north and northwest. These 30-day totals were at or above normal for most, with localized areas of 175-300% of normal.
- In the north-central and northwest regions, totals of 2-4” were observed. These 30-day totals were near to normal.
90 Day Precipitation Total and Percent of Normals
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Map titled “Accumulated Precipitation (in)” showing total precipitation across Wisconsin from February 4 to May 4, 2026. A color legend at the bottom ranges from 0 to 25 inches. Most of Wisconsin is shaded blue to light blue, indicating approximately 5–10 inches of precipitation statewide. Northern and northwestern Wisconsin show darker blue to green areas, indicating higher totals around 10–15 inches. Southern and eastern areas, including near Madison and Milwaukee, show lighter blue shades closer to 5–8 inches. Source text states “PRISM Weather Data,” generated May 5, 2026, by the Midwestern Regional Climate Center.
Image Description ↓
Map titled “Accumulated Precipitation: Percent of 1991–2020 Normals” covering Wisconsin from February 4 to May 4, 2026. Color shading shows precipitation relative to normal: pale yellow in parts of western Wisconsin indicates below normal (about 75–100%). Greens across much of the north and west indicate above normal (125–150%). Blue to dark blue areas concentrated in central and eastern Wisconsin, including near Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee, indicate well above normal precipitation (150–250%+). The legend ranges from 0% to 300%. Source listed as PRISM Weather Data and NCEI Normals (1991–2020); generated May 5, 2026.
- The highest precipitation totals were in east central and far southeastern counties (15” or more). A large portion of the state received over 10”.
- Precipitation totals were lowest in the northwest (5-7.5”).
- The entire state received precipitation totals that were at or above normal. In the southeastern, central, and northeastern counties, 90-day totals were commonly at or above 175% of normal.
2026 Precipitation
Image Description ↓
Map titled “Accumulated Precipitation (in)” showing total precipitation across Wisconsin from January 1 to May 4, 2026. A color legend ranges from 0 to 40 inches. Most of central and eastern Wisconsin is shaded light to medium blue, indicating roughly 7.5–15 inches of precipitation. Northern and northwestern Wisconsin show darker blue to green shades, indicating higher totals around 15–25 inches. Southern Wisconsin, including areas near Madison and Milwaukee, appears slightly lighter blue, closer to 10–12.5 inches. Source text reads “PRISM Weather Data,” generated May 5, 2026, by the Midwestern Regional Climate Center.
Image Description ↓
Map titled “Accumulated Precipitation (in): Departure from 1991–2020 Normals” for January 1 to May 4, 2026. Colors show inches above or below normal: yellow to orange shades in parts of western Wisconsin indicate slightly below normal (about −2 to 0 inches). Greens dominate much of the state, indicating above-normal precipitation (0 to +6 inches). Blue shades concentrated in central and eastern Wisconsin, including near Green Bay and Madison, indicate larger positive departures of approximately +6 to +10 inches, with localized higher surpluses. Legend ranges from −4 to +16 inches. Source: PRISM Weather Data; generated May 5, 2026, by the Midwestern Regional Climate Center.
Soil Moisture and Temperature Trends
Soil Moisture Models
Image Description ↓
Map titled “NASA SPoRT‑LIS 0–100 cm Soil Moisture Percentile.” Wisconsin counties are outlined with nearby labels including Superior, Minneapolis, Madison, and Milwaukee. The color scale shows soil moisture percentiles from 0–100, with reds and oranges indicating very dry conditions, yellows below normal, gray near normal (30–70th percentile), and light to dark blues indicating above-normal to very wet conditions (70–100th percentile). Most of Wisconsin appears gray, indicating near-normal soil moisture. Light to medium blue areas in northern Wisconsin indicate above-normal moisture. Yellow areas in southern and eastern Wisconsin, including near Madison and along Lake Michigan toward Milwaukee, indicate drier-than-normal soils. Logos for NOAA, NIDIS, and NASA appear at the top. Source listed as NASA; data valid April 28, 2026.
Image Description ↓
Map titled “NASA SPoRT‑LIS 0–100 cm Soil Moisture Percentile” showing Wisconsin with county outlines and nearby labels including Minneapolis, Superior, Madison, and Milwaukee. The legend shows percentiles from 0 (very dry, red/brown) to 100 (very wet, dark blue); gray represents near-normal (30–70). Much of Wisconsin appears gray, indicating near-normal soil moisture. Numerous yellow areas (20–30th percentile) are scattered statewide, especially across southern, central, and western counties, indicating drier-than-normal soils. Few blue areas appear in far northern and isolated eastern locations, indicating above-normal moisture. NOAA, NIDIS, and NASA logos are visible; source listed as NASA. Data valid May 4, 2026.
- Soil moisture at 4” depth decreased across Wisconet research farm stations compared to last week, following a relatively dry week across the state.
- Most of the soils in the state are indicated as having near-normal moisture.
- Abnormal dryness is showing up in parts of southeastern, south-central, and west-central counties.
- Notes on how to interpret the maps:
- Red areas = top 5 driest in 100 years.
- Dark red areas = top 2 driest in 100 years.
- Dark blue areas = top 2 wettest in 100 years.
Wisconet Soil Moisture
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Geographic map of Wisconsin and nearby Great Lakes region labeled “4 in Soil Moisture (m³/m³).” Circular markers display measured soil moisture values at monitoring locations, each labeled with a number and color‑coded by range. Values span roughly 0.04 to 0.47 m³/m³. Northern and northwestern Wisconsin show several higher readings (around 0.36–0.47, green shades). Central and southern Wisconsin include many lower readings (around 0.04–0.20, brown/yellow shades), with very low values near south‑central areas. Eastern Wisconsin shows mixed conditions, mostly 0.25–0.35. A legend lists moisture ranges from greater than 0.50 down to 0.00–0.05 m³/m³.
Image Description ↓
Geographic map labeled “8 in Soil Moisture (m³/m³)” showing Wisconsin and nearby areas with circular station markers. Each circle displays a numeric soil moisture value and color indicating range. Values span roughly 0.04 to 0.51 m³/m³. Northern Wisconsin and areas near Lake Superior show higher moisture readings (about 0.43–0.51, green shades). Central Wisconsin has mixed values, commonly 0.27–0.36. Southern and parts of east‑central Wisconsin include several low readings (about 0.04–0.15, brown to dark red), indicating drier deeper soils, with some stations marked “N/A.” Eastern Wisconsin near Green Bay, Appleton, and Milwaukee shows moderate to higher values (around 0.26–0.44). A legend lists soil moisture categories from greater than 0.50 down to 0.00–0.05 m³/m³.
Image Description ↓
Geographic map labeled “20 in Soil Moisture (m³/m³)” displaying Wisconsin and nearby areas with circular markers at station locations. Each marker shows a numeric soil moisture value and color‑coded range. Values span approximately 0.04 to 0.52 m³/m³. Northern Wisconsin near Lake Superior includes higher readings around 0.49–0.52 (green). Central and eastern Wisconsin show several low readings near 0.04–0.15 (brown to dark red), indicating drier deep soil moisture. Southern and southwestern areas include mixed moderate values around 0.30–0.45. Some stations are marked “N/A.” A legend lists soil moisture classes from greater than 0.50 down to 0.00–0.05 m³/m³.
- The maps show Wisconet soil moisture conditions on Mayth @ 2:00pm.
- The table shows total precipitation and changes in soil moisture from April 27th (Start) to May 4th (End).
- Units of map & change values are {Volume of water}/{Volume of soil}.
| Research Farm | County | Total Precipitation (in.) | 4″ Start | 4″ End | 8″ Start | 8″ End | 20″ Start | 20″ End |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arlington | Columbia | 0.02 | 0.42 | 0.38 | 0.41 | 0.37 | 0.44 | 0.43 |
| Black River Falls | Jackson | 0.03 | 0.10 | 0.08 | 0.11 | 0.10 | 0.21 | 0.15 |
| Dairy Forage ARS | Sauk | 0.01 | 0.25 | 0.21 | 0.33 | 0.31 | 0.39 | 0.38 |
| Hancock | Waushara | 0.21 | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.06 | 0.06 | 0.05 | 0.05 |
| Kemp | Oneida | 0.04 | 0.21 | 0.17 | 0.19 | 0.16 | 0.07 | 0.07 |
| Lancaster | Grant | 0.03 | 0.33 | 0.27 | 0.36 | 0.32 | 0.47 | 0.45 |
| Marshfield | Marathon | 0.32 | 0.44 | 0.41 | 0.48 | 0.46 | 0.52 | 0.52 |
| O.J. Noer (Turfgrass) | Dane | 0.00 | 0.31 | 0.27 | 0.37 | 0.33 | 0.46 | 0.45 |
| Peninsular | Door | 0.13 | 0.27 | 0.22 | 0.24 | 0.20 | 0.32 | 0.26 |
| Rhinelander | Oneida | 0.03 | 0.19 | 0.16 | 0.15 | 0.14 | 0.076 | 0.05 |
| Spooner | Washburn | 0.03 | 0.31 | 0.22 | 0.20 | 0.15 | 0.18 | 0.15 |
| Research Farm | Current 4″ Soil Moisture | Last Week’s 4″ Soil Moisture | 1 Month Ago 4″ Soil Moisture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arlington | 0.38 | 0.42 | 0.44 |
| Black River Falls | 0.08 | 0.10 | 0.31 |
| Dairy Forage ARS | 0.21 | 0.25 | 0.34 |
| Hancock | 0.05 | 0.05 | 0.16 |
| Kemp | 0.17 | 0.21 | 0.24 |
| Lancaster | 0.27 | 0.33 | 0.38 |
| Marshfield | 0.41 | 0.44 | 0.46 |
| O.J. Noer (Turfgrass) | 0.27 | 0.31 | 0.43 |
| Peninsular | 0.22 | 0.27 | 0.36 |
| Rhinelander | 0.16 | 0.19 | 0.24 |
| Spooner | 0.22 | 0.31 | 0.32 |
USDA Soil Moisture Reports
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A USDA‑branded choropleth map of the contiguous United States titled “Topsoil Moisture: Percent Adequate, Week Ending – May 3, 2026.” Each state is shaded from light to dark green based on the percentage of topsoil moisture rated adequate (legend ranges from 0–9% to 90–100%). Each state contains two values: the top number is percent adequate, and the bracketed number below shows change from last week.
Examples include:
- California 90% (no change); Washington 83% (–8); Oregon 75% (–5).
- Colorado 4% (0), New Mexico 10% (+3).
- Iowa 81% (+5); Illinois 70% (0); Indiana 62% (+9).
- Kentucky 43% (+19); Tennessee 54% (+24).
- New York 81% (+31); Pennsylvania 61% (–5); Virginia 36% (+17).
A summary box states: “48 States: Adequate = 53; Change from Last Week = +2.” Source text notes data from USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service weekly Crop Progress reports.
Image Description ↓
A USDA‑branded choropleth map titled “Subsoil Moisture – Percent Adequate, Week Ending May 3, 2026.” The contiguous U.S. is shaded from light to dark green by percent of subsoil moisture rated adequate (legend ranges 0–9% to 90–100%). Each state shows two numbers: the percent adequate and, below in brackets, the change from last week.
Selected values: California 95% (0); Oregon 72% (–4); Washington 67% (–3). Colorado 8% (+3); New Mexico 14% (+2). North Dakota 75% (–6); South Dakota 44% (–1); Iowa 78% (+5); Illinois 81% (+2). Kentucky 38% (+11); Tennessee 36% (+11). New York 65% (–1); Pennsylvania 50% (–3); Virginia 24% (–2).
A summary box states: “48 States: Adequate = 52; Change from Last Week = +3.” Data source: USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service weekly Crop Progress reports.
- 55% and 68% of agricultural soils in the state are reported as having adequate topsoil and subsoil moisture, respectively.
- 42% and 30% of agricultural soils in the state are reported as having surplus topsoil and subsoil moisture, respectively.
Wisconet Soil Temperature
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A map of Wisconsin labeled “4 in Soil Temperature (°F)” displays circular markers at monitoring stations with numeric temperature values. Most readings fall between 40–60°F (green shades), with several 60–70°F sites (yellow), especially in southern and eastern Wisconsin near Lake Michigan. Example values include mid‑40s to high‑40s in northern Wisconsin, low‑to‑mid‑50s across central areas, and upper‑50s to low‑60s in southern and eastern locations (e.g., values near 60–63°F). A legend shows color ranges from less than 10°F to greater than 100°F, though no stations exceed 70°F. Some locations are marked “N/A.”
Image Description ↓
A statewide map labeled “8 in Soil Temperature (°F)” displays circular markers at monitoring stations across Wisconsin, each with a numeric temperature value. Most readings range from the mid‑40s to mid‑50s°F, shown in green shades. Northern areas show lower values (about 43–48°F), central Wisconsin clusters around 46–50°F, and southern/eastern areas are warmer, commonly 50–58°F, with a few readings near 59°F. A color legend at left shows temperature ranges from less than 10°F up to greater than 100°F; no stations exceed 60–70°F. Several locations are marked “N/A.”
Image Description ↓
A statewide Wisconsin map labeled “20 in Soil Temperature (°F)” displays circular station markers with numeric temperatures. Most values range from the low‑40s to mid‑50s°F. Northern Wisconsin sites are cooler (about 43–48°F), central areas cluster near 46–50°F, and southern and southeastern locations are warmer, commonly 50–56°F, with a few readings near 56–57°F. Eastern and lakeshore stations are mostly upper‑40s to low‑50s. A vertical legend shows temperature categories from less than 10°F to greater than 100°F; no stations exceed 60°F. Several locations are marked “N/A.”
- The maps show Wisconet soil temperature conditions on May 5th @ 2:00 pm.
U.S. Drought Monitor
Image Description ↓
A map titled “U.S. Drought Monitor – Midwest” dated May 5, 2026 (released May 7, valid 8 a.m. EDT). Counties are shaded by drought intensity: None (white), D0 Abnormally Dry (yellow), D1 Moderate (tan), D2 Severe (orange), D3 Extreme (red), and D4 Exceptional (dark red). Most of the Midwest shows no drought. D0–D1 conditions appear in parts of Minnesota, Iowa, and Missouri. Southern Illinois, southern Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee show widespread D1–D3, with small areas of D4 near the Ohio River Valley.
A table lists Drought Conditions (Percent Area) for the Midwest:
Comparable rows show last week, 3 months ago, start of year, start of water year, and one year ago.
Current: None 80.86%, D0–D4 19.14%, D1–D4 11.42%, D2–D4 5.88%, D3–D4 1.96%, D4 0.00%.
Compared to last week:
- Minimal change from last week. Isolated regions of 1 class improvement or degradation.
- 88.6% of the Midwest region is drought free (~11.4% in D1-D4).
Image Description ↓
A map titled “U.S. Drought Monitor – Wisconsin” dated May 5, 2026 (released May 7; valid 8 a.m. EDT). Counties are shaded by drought category: None (white), D0 Abnormally Dry (yellow), D1 Moderate (tan), D2 Severe (orange), D3 Extreme (red), D4 Exceptional (dark red). Nearly all Wisconsin counties are white (no drought). A small area in northwestern Wisconsin shows D0 Abnormally Dry.
A table labeled “Drought Conditions (Percent Area)” reports:
One Year Ago: None 67.75%; D0–D4 32.25%.
Current: None 98.03%; D0–D4 1.97%; D1–D4 0.00%; D2–D4 0.00%; D3–D4 0.00%; D4 0.00%.
Last Week (04‑28‑2026): Same as current.
3 Months Ago: None 36.70%; D0–D4 63.30%.
Start of Calendar Year: None 2.76%; D0–D4 97.24%.
Start of Water Year: None 64.44%; D0–D4 35.56%.
- No change from last week’s report.
Image Description ↓
A map titled “U.S. Drought Monitor Class Change – Wisconsin, 1 Week” compares conditions from April 28 to May 5, 2026. Wisconsin counties are outlined and shaded by drought class change. The legend shows categories from 5‑class degradation (brown) through no change (gray) to 5‑class improvement (dark blue). Nearly the entire state is gray (no change). A small area in northwestern Wisconsin shows light gray shading, indicating no change as well (no degradations or improvements elsewhere). Branding includes the National Drought Mitigation Center and droughtmonitor.unl.edu.
- The state remains drought free.
U.S. Drought Monitor Time Series
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A line chart titled “Wisconsin Drought Time Series (USDM)” shows the percent of the state in drought categories over time, from June 2025 to May 5, 2026. The y‑axis is Percent of State in Category (0–100%); the x‑axis lists dates. Five color‑coded lines represent D0–D4 (yellow), D1–D4 (tan), D2–D4 (orange), D3–D4 (red), and D4 (dark red).
Key patterns:
Late April–May 5, 2026: Continued improvement; D0–D4 ~2% and D1–D4, D2–D4, D3–D4, D4 at or near 0%.
Early summer 2025: D0–D4 near 95–100%; D1–D4 around 50%; D2–D4 near 12%; D3–D4 and D4 near 0%.
Late summer–winter: D0–D4 stabilizes around ~63%; D1–D4 around ~27–28%; D2–D4 around ~3%.
Early March 2026: Temporary increase with D0–D4 near ~72%.
Mid‑ to late March: Sharp declines—D0–D4 drops to ~27%, D1–D4 to ~5%, D2–D4 to ~0–1%.
- 2% of the state remains abnormally dry (D0), all in Douglas, Burnett, and Washburn Counties.
Temperature Trends
7 Day Temperatures
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A shaded map titled “Average Temperature (°F)” for April 28, 2026 to May 04, 2026, covering Wisconsin. Counties are color‑coded from darker green (cooler) to lighter green (warmer). Northern Wisconsin shows average temperatures around 40–45°F, central areas around 45–50°F, and southern Wisconsin closer to 50–55°F. City labels include Eau Claire, Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee. A horizontal legend shows temperature ranges from 40 to 55°F. Source text reads “PRISM Weather Data”, credited to the Midwestern Regional Climate Center, generated Tue May 05, 2026, 14:26 EDT.
Image Description ↓
A Wisconsin map titled “Average Temperature (°F): Departure from 1991–2020 Normals” for April 28, 2026 to May 04, 2026. Counties are shaded in green tones indicating below‑normal temperatures. Departures range roughly from –1°F to –7°F, with most of the state –3°F to –5°F below normal. Northern and north‑central Wisconsin show the largest negative departures (darker green). Labeled cities include Eau Claire, Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee. A horizontal legend shows departures from –7 to +1°F. Source credits PRISM Weather Data and the Midwestern Regional Climate Center; generated Tue May 05, 2026, 14:26 EDT.
- Average temperatures ranged from 50-55°F in the southwest corner of the state to 40-45°F in the north.
- Temperatures were 2-5°F below normal across most of Wisconsin.
30 Day Temperatures
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A shaded map titled “Average Temperature (°F)” for April 05, 2026 to May 04, 2026, depicting Wisconsin. Counties are colored from darker green (cooler) to lighter green (warmer). Northern Wisconsin averages about 35–40°F, central areas about 40–45°F, and southern Wisconsin about 45–50°F, with the warmest pockets approaching 50–55°F. City labels include Eau Claire, Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee. A horizontal legend shows temperatures from 35 to 55°F. Source is PRISM Weather Data, credited to the Midwestern Regional Climate Center, generated Tue May 05, 2026, 14:27 EDT.
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A Wisconsin map titled “Average Temperature (°F): Departure from 1991–2020 Normals” for April 05, 2026 to May 04, 2026. Counties are shaded from light to dark orange indicating above‑normal temperatures. Departures range from about +1°F to +6°F, with most areas +2°F to +4°F above normal. Central and southern Wisconsin show the largest positive departures (darker orange). Northern areas are generally +1°F to +3°F. City labels include Eau Claire, Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee. A horizontal legend displays departures from –2 to +6°F. Source credits PRISM Weather Data and the Midwestern Regional Climate Center, generated Tue May 05, 2026, 14:27:55 EDT.
Last Spring Freeze
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The map is titled “Typical Last Spring Freeze (32°) Date” with a subtitle stating it is based on averages from 1950–2025. It shows Wisconsin divided by counties, shaded in a purple gradient indicating the average date of the last 32°F spring freeze. Dates are labeled across the state. Southern Wisconsin shows earlier last freeze dates, mainly late April (for example, April 26–27 and May 2–3). Central Wisconsin shows early to mid‑May dates, such as May 7, May 8, and May 11. Northern Wisconsin, including areas near Lake Superior, shows later dates from mid‑ to late May, including May 23, May 24, and May 29. A color bar at the bottom indicates a progression from March 19 on the early end to June 3 on the late end. The Midwestern Regional Climate Center (MRCC) logo and a small Wisconsin locator map appear at the lower right.
- To explore data on when the last spring freeze typically occurs in your county, please check out the interactive MRCC Freeze Date Tool.
- To view an interactive map of where conditions may be favorable for frost formation over the next seven days, check out the National Weather Service Frost & Freeze Decision Support Tool.
- Probabilities of overnight lows at or below 32°F remain moderately likely over the next week for folks in the central and northern counties. Freeze is less likely in the south but still be sure to check your local forecast.
Crop Progress and Condition
Crop Progress Report for Wisconsin for the Week Ending on May 3rd
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A USDA map titled “Corn Progress – Percent Planted” dated May 3, 2026. Each state shows the percent of corn planted (top number) and change from the 5‑year average (bottom bracketed value). Colors represent differences from average, ranging from 40% or more above to 40% or less below.
Examples: Wisconsin 42% (+20); Minnesota 42% (+9); Iowa 42% (‑2); Illinois 38% (+2); Indiana 77% (+31); Kentucky 87% (+27); Ohio 33% (+18); Michigan 5% (‑9); North Dakota 4% (‑5); South Dakota 27% (+7); Nebraska 41% (‑1); Kansas 19% (‑1); Texas 77% (+3); North Carolina 74% (‑5); Pennsylvania 15% (+1).
A box notes National Progress: 38% planted; +4 vs 5‑year average. Source: USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service weekly Crop Progress reports.
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A USDA map titled “Soybeans Progress – Percent Planted” dated May 3, 2026. Each highlighted state shows the percent of soybeans planted (top number) and change from the 5‑year average (bottom bracketed value). Colors indicate differences from average, from 40% or more above (dark green) to 40% or more below (red).
Examples shown: Minnesota 27% (+12); Iowa 27% (‑2); Wisconsin 10% (‑3); Michigan 3% (‑12); Illinois 46% (+14); Indiana 44% (+25); Ohio 30% (+16); Kentucky 61% (+35); Tennessee 69% (+44); Mississippi 77% (+20); Louisiana 84% (+26); Missouri 30% (+7); Arkansas 73% (+26); North Dakota 2% (‑1); South Dakota 14% (+4); Kansas 25% (+8); Pennsylvania 24% (+5).
A box lists National Progress: 33% planted; +10 vs 5‑year average. Source: USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service weekly Crop Progress reports.
- Wisconsin had 4.1 days suitable for fieldwork statewide. This was an increase from the previous week, due in part to drier conditions.
- Corn planting is at 10% complete, up from 3% last week.
- Soybean planting is at 10% complete, up from 3% last week.
- Oat planting is 29% complete, compared to the average of 41%. Ten percent of oats have emerged.
- Pasture and range were rated 50% good to excellent, up 5 percentage points from last week.
- Winter wheat was rated 56% good to excellent, up 3% from last week.
- Read the full USDA report.
Forecasts and Outlooks
7 Day Precipitation Forecast
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A map titled “7‑Day Quantitative Precipitation Forecast for May 5–12, 2026” from drought.gov, NOAA, and NIDIS. Wisconsin counties are shaded by predicted total precipitation (inches). Most of central and southern Wisconsin is shaded light to medium green, indicating approximately 0.25 to 0.75 inches. Parts of southeastern and east‑central Wisconsin, including near Milwaukee and Madison, show darker green to blue shades, indicating 0.75 to about 1.25 inches. Northern Wisconsin has lighter shading, generally 0.1 to 0.25 inches, with some areas near 0.01 inches. The legend ranges from 0 inches to 20+ inches, though forecast values over Wisconsin remain under ~1.5 inches. Nearby labels include Wisconsin, Madison, Milwaukee, and surrounding states. Source: National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center; last updated May 5, 2026.
- When? – Multiple chances throughout the week, with the highest chance on Tuesday into Wednesday.
- Where? – Chances exist statewide, with lesser chances in the far western counties.
- Check your local forecast for details on totals and timing.
- Average precip (1991-2020) for this week: 0.83”.
8-14 Day Temperature and Precipitation Outlook
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A map titled “8–14 Day Precipitation Outlook for May 12–18, 2026” from drought.gov and the Climate Prediction Center. Wisconsin counties are uniformly shaded light gray/teal, indicating near‑normal precipitation conditions. No areas show elevated probabilities of above‑normal (green/teal) or below‑normal (brown) precipitation. Labels include Wisconsin, Madison, Milwaukee, Superior, and nearby Minneapolis. The legend displays probability scales for below‑normal precipitation (33–100%), above‑normal precipitation (33–100%), and near‑normal conditions. Source text notes Climate Prediction Center; last updated May 4, 2026.
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A map titled “8–14 Day Temperature Outlook for May 12–18, 2026” from drought.gov, NOAA, NIDIS, and the Climate Prediction Center. Wisconsin counties are mostly shaded gray, indicating near‑normal temperatures statewide. A light blue wedge across northeastern Wisconsin shows a 33–40% probability of below‑normal temperatures. No areas show above‑normal temperature probabilities. Labels include Wisconsin, Madison, Milwaukee, Superior, and nearby Minneapolis. Legends display probability scales for below‑normal temperatures (33–100%), above‑normal temperatures (33–100%), and near‑normal conditions. Source credits the Climate Prediction Center; last updated May 4, 2026.
- Mid-May: Temperatures are leaning toward above normal for most of the state, more so in the west and south (33-50% chance). Precipitation shows a slight lean towards above normal (33-40% chance).
- Statewide normals (1991-2020) for May 14-20 are 55.9°F and 0.90”.
30 Day Temperature and Precipitation Outlook
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NOAA/NIDIS Climate Prediction Center monthly precipitation outlook map for May 1–31, 2026, last updated April 30, 2026. The map centers on Wisconsin and surrounding states. The majority of Wisconsin is shaded in the lightest tan, indicating a 33–40% probability of below-normal precipitation. A larger tan circle overlapping western Wisconsin and extending into Minnesota and Iowa shows a slightly higher probability of below-normal precipitation in the 40–50% range. No areas on the map show above-normal or near-normal precipitation signals. The white/unshaded areas to the east (Michigan, Illinois) fall outside the outlook signal zone. The color scale runs from light tan (33%) to dark brown (100%) for below-normal, teal shades for above-normal, and gray for near-normal precipitation probabilities.
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NOAA/NIDIS Monthly Temperature Outlook map for May 1–31, 2026, sourced from the Climate Prediction Center (last updated 04/30/26). The map focuses on Wisconsin and surrounding states. Wisconsin and Michigan are shaded in light to medium blue, indicating a 40–50% probability of below-normal temperatures throughout the month. Areas immediately east of Wisconsin along Lake Michigan show slightly darker blue, suggesting a modestly higher probability (50–60%) of below-normal temperatures. States to the west and southwest (portions of Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois) appear white/unshaded, indicating equal chances across temperature categories. A color scale below the map shows blue shades representing 33–100% probability of below-normal temperatures, orange-to-red shades for above-normal, and gray for near-normal. No above-normal temperature signals are present in the mapped region.
- May: Temperatures are leaning toward below average statewide (33-40% chance for most), with precipitation also leaning towards below average (40-50% in the far west; 33-40% elsewhere).
- Statewide normals (1991-2020) for May 1-31 are 55.4°F and 3.93”.
90 Day Temperature and Precipitation Outlook
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A NOAA/NIDIS Climate Prediction Center map covering the Great Lakes states (Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and parts of neighboring states) for the 3-month period May 1 through July 31, 2026. The map displays no colored shading, indicating the entire region falls into the “equal chances” category — meaning no statistically significant tilt toward below-normal, near-normal, or above-normal precipitation is forecast. Three color scale legends appear below the map: below-normal precipitation (tan to dark brown, 33%–100%), above-normal precipitation (light teal to dark teal, 33%–100%), and near-normal precipitation (light to medium gray, 33%–50%). Source: Climate Prediction Center. Last updated 04/16/26.
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NOAA/NIDIS Climate Prediction Center map of the upper Midwest and Great Lakes region displaying the 3-month seasonal temperature outlook for May 1 through July 31, 2026, last updated April 16, 2026. The mapped area — which includes Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and surrounding states — appears unshaded (white), indicating a forecast of near-normal temperatures with approximately 33–40% probability. A small area in the far lower-left corner shows light yellow shading, indicating a slight probability of above-normal temperatures. Three color scale legends are shown below the map: blue tones (33%–100%) for below-normal probability, orange-to-red tones (33%–100%) for above-normal probability, and gray tones (33%–50%) for near-normal probability. Source: Climate Prediction Center. Site: Drought.gov.
- May-July: Uncertainty for temperatures and precipitation statewide with equal chances for above-, near-, or below-normal conditions.
- Statewide normals (1991-2020) for May-July are 63.2°F and 12.67”.
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