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
Recent Conditions
- Temperatures were 3-6°F above normal across most of the state. In the southeast, temperatures were 1-3°F above normal.
- Rainfall totals were highest across southern counties, with totals of 1.5-3”. Counties in west-central Wisconsin received the least amount of rain last week (≤0.25”).
Impact
- For Wisconet stations included in the chart and table, soil moisture change from last week was a mixed bag. In general, the change in soil moisture at the 4” depth was relatively small.
- Satellite-based soil moisture estimates indicate similar conditions compared to last week’s report. Dryness improved across south-central counties but worsened across west-central and northwest counties.
- Exceptional (D4) drought increased in coverage across far northern Wisconsin, with drought coverage (D1-D4) decreasing by 2%.
- Soybean harvest is well underway in Wisconsin, but trails behind the 5-year average pace. Corn silage harvest is nearly complete with 72% of the corn crop at maturity.
Outlook
- Rain chances over the next 7 days are highest in northwest counties, with lesser totals further to the east.
- Mid-to-Late October temperatures are leaning above normal statewide, with precipitation leaning towards near normal.
- October temperatures are leaning above normal across the western half of Wisconsin. Precipitation is leaning below normal across the central and northern counties.
- The outlook for the rest of fall into early winter indicates a lean towards above-normal temperatures with precipitation uncertain (“equal chances”).
Agronomic, Fruit, and Vegetable Considerations
Field Conditions
- Crop conditions are highly reflective of moisture throughout the state. Late season moisture is causing some issues with grain quality, especially in soybean. Prioritize any affected fields to ensure a timely harvest.
- After harvest is a great time to take soil samples. Make plans to stay up to date with your nutrient management plan.
Forage Management
- Use the Alfalfa Cutting Tool to plan your final cut to manage for persistence and winter survival.
- Read about the impacts of drought on alfalfa if your crop is affected.
- Silage season is here, and dry down events have concluded for the year. View moistures collected from dry down events: Corn Silage Dry Down Monitoring Tool.
- If your silage crop has been impacted by drought, read these harvest considerations.
- In areas that are impacted by drought, take caution with annual forages such as sorghum-sudangrass for concerns related to nitrate toxicity.
- Consider planting a cover crop after silage. A cover crop can not only provide environmental benefits but also forage for livestock.
- Silo gas has been present again this year in various structures, potentially due to higher nitrate content in silage. Use caution when working with or near these storage structures.
Pest Management
- Scout fields to note what weed species are part of a late season flush.
- Read the late-season field crops disease report. Diseases may be visible in corn and soybean fields, so make appropriate harvest plans if disease is present.
- Planting cover crops after grain harvest is a great way to reduce soil erosion and provide weed control.
- Reducing next year’s weed seed population can be accomplished with combine cleaning.
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.
- As you conduct fall spreading, keeping field records is important to estimate crop nutrient needs. Refer to A2809 for guidance. Fall is also a great time to have manure samples analyzed for nutrient content.
Small Grains
- If you are planting winter wheat this fall, consider revisiting Small Grains Recommendations and Row Width and Seeding Rates in WI.
- Read the Top 9 Recommendations for Winter Wheat Establishment in 2026. The planting window (September 20-October 10) is coming to an end.
Fruit Considerations – General
- Grape growers dealing with uneven ripening may reference this 2024 WI Fruit News article: Understanding and Addressing Uneven Ripening in Grapes.
- Reminder: Always read and follow directions on the label and keep in mind pre-harvest intervals (PHI) as we move through harvest.
- Table and wine grape harvest is completed at West Madison Ag. Research Station and the Peninsular Ag. Research Station. Check out the September 24 WI Fruit Crop Scouting Report for the most recent update on grape maturity testing.
- Sanitation: remove and destroy (chop/compost) fallen fruit ~weekly to prevent any internally developing larvae from reaching maturity, and to limit the spread of disease. Clean up weeds around trees and vines, mow aisles to allow for better light penetration to aid in decomposition of leaf/plant material. After leaf drop, chop, compost, remove or burn (where permitted) fallen leaf and plant material to limit potential for disease inoculum and any overwintering pests.
- Apple and grape growers can reference the NEWA weather station network to monitor for disease infection periods in their area. Check out your nearest weather station: NEWA Weather Station Network (Cornell).
Fruit Considerations – Disease
- Apple and grape growers can reference the NEWA weather station network to monitor late-season disease infection periods in their area. Check out your nearest weather station: NEWA Weather Station Network (Cornell).
Fruit Considerations – Insects
- Brown marmorated stink bug has been observed at West Madison. Keep an eye out for large populations through harvest.
- 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.
- Reminder: Always read and follow directions on the label and keep in mind pre-harvest intervals (PHI) as we move through harvest!
Vegetable Considerations – General
- With mild fall weather continuing, it’s not too late to establish a fall cover crop. The Cover Crop Selector Tool can help you choose the right cover crop for your operation, including making a plan for termination.
- Consider how you can prepare for a strong El Niño this winter. This article from University of Minnesota Extension has tips including increased pest monitoring and planning for potential warm and wet spring conditions
- Pest management for next year’s crops starts this fall as many insects and diseases overwinter on crop residue. Residue management (either removing or tilling in residue) can help reduce next year’s pest and disease pressure. Pests include asparagus beetles, crucifer flea beetles, imported cabbage worms, squash bugs, onion maggots, and more.
Vegetable Considerations – Disease
- Continue to monitor for post-harvest storage issues on vegetables which could include soft rots and gray mold. Optimal storage conditions vary by crop, so be sure to know the right conditions for every crop.
- While powdery mildew will not infect the fruit of pumpkins, the stems can be infected resulting in shriveled and weak stems for Halloween pumpkins. It is recommended to cut the stems even if the pumpkins are not fully mature as they will ripen off the vine. Additionally, if vines die back from powdery mildew, the fruit can be susceptible to sunscald so be sure to monitor your crop in the field.
Vegetable Considerations – Insects
- Be on the lookout for cabbage aphids and green peach aphids in fall brassicas & greens. They can be difficult to see so look for yellowing & wilting leaves, deformed heads, & drops of honeydew aka aphid poop which is a thick, sticky liquid. Their populations can explode quickly in the fall as reproduction rates actually increase in cool temps (50-68°F).
- Have you struggled with asparagus beetles in the past? Once ferns are completely brown, it is recommended to either chop or mow them and then remove and compost elsewhere when possible. This will prevent the beetles from overwintering in your field.
Dive deeper into each report section by clicking a topic below.
Precipitation Trends
7 Day Precipitation
Image Description ↓
Map depicting NOAA radar estimates for rain accumulation across Wisconsin and surrounding regional areas from September 29, 2026, to October 06, 2026. Regions around Eau Claire and central Wisconsin received 0.1 to 0.5 inches of rain (blue shading), while areas near Madison and Milwaukee received higher totals of 1.5 to 3 inches (yellow and green shades). Upper northern areas recorded 0.5 to 1 inch of rain.
Image Description ↓
Map titled “Accumulated Precipitation: Percent of 1991-2020 Normals,” for September 30, 2026 to October 6, 2026. Precipitation was well below normal across much of western Wisconsin, including the Eau Claire area, generally ranging from 10% to 50% of normal. Much of central and northeastern Wisconsin, including the Green Bay area, received roughly 50% to 90% of normal precipitation. Southern Wisconsin was wetter than normal, with large areas around Madison and Milwaukee at approximately 150% to 300% of normal and some southwestern areas reaching 300% to 400%. The legend ranges from 0% to 400% of normal. Source: PRISM Weather Data and NCEI Normals; Midwestern Regional Climate Center. Generated October 8, 2026.
- Rainfall totals were highest across southern counties, with totals of 1.5-3” (125-300% of normal). Most of the state received at least 0.25”.
- Counties in west-central Wisconsin received the least amount of rain last week, commonly 0.25” or less (≤30% of normal).
- Highest Wisconet station total from last week: 2.11” (Walworth, Walworth County). Totals in Walworth County were as high as 200-300% of normal.
30 Day Precipitation Total and Departure from Normals
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Wisconsin map depicting total accumulated precipitation in inches from September 06, 2026, to October 05, 2026, generated by the Midwestern Regional Climate Center from PRISM Weather Data on October 06, 2026. Key cities that are marked are Eau Claire, Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee. Northern Wisconsin experienced 1.5 to 3 inches of rain (green shading), whereas the southern half of the state recorded higher accumulations ranging from 4 to 8 inches (blue and dark green shading).
Image Description ↓
Wisconsin map displaying accumulated precipitation as a percent of 1991–2020 normals from September 06, 2026, to October 05, 2026, created by the Midwestern Regional Climate Center using PRISM Weather Data and NCEI Norms on October 06, 2026. Major labeled cities include Eau Claire, Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee. Northern and central Wisconsin show below-normal precipitation ranging from 30% to 75% (yellow and orange tones), while southern Wisconsin shows near to above-normal precipitation ranging from 100% to 200% (green tones).
- Counties south of Wausau commonly received 4-8”, with pockets of 8-10” in the southwest and south-central regions. These totals were 110-200% of normal for most, with 200-300% in the far south/southwest.
- Across northern Wisconsin, conditions were dry. Most locations saw less than 3” of rain (≤75% of normal). The driest locations were in Ashland, Iron, and Marinette Counties (1” or less).
90 Day Precipitation Total and Percent of Normals
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Wisconsin map displaying total accumulated precipitation in inches for the 90-day period from July 08, 2026, to October 05, 2026, produced by the Midwestern Regional Climate Center on October 06, 2026. Marked locations include Eau Claire, Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee. Total precipitation increases from north to south, with northern counties receiving 3 to 5 inches (dark green), central areas receiving 5 to 10 inches (medium blue), and southern counties receiving 10 to 15 inches with isolated areas reaching up to 20 inches (light blue and purple).
Image Description ↓
Wisconsin map detailing accumulated precipitation as a percent of 1991–2020 normals from July 08, 2026, to October 05, 2026, published by the Midwestern Regional Climate Center on October 06, 2026. Cities indicated on the map are Eau Claire, Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee. The northern half of Wisconsin received below-normal precipitation between 30% and 75% (yellow and orange), central region levels were around 90% to 100% (gray), and southern regions reached 110% to 150% of normal levels (green).
- In the southern 2/3 of the state, totals ranged from 7.5-15” for most, with localized areas of 15-20”. Rainfall totals in this region were near to above average (90-150%).
- Northern counties were the driest, with most locations receiving totals that were at or below 75% of normal.
2026 Precipitation
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Wisconsin map showing total year-to-date accumulated precipitation in inches between January 01, 2026, and October 05, 2026, created by the Midwestern Regional Climate Center on October 06, 2026. Labeled cities consist of Eau Claire, Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee. Northern Wisconsin totals range between 19 and 25 inches (yellow and lime green), central Wisconsin recorded 28 to 34 inches (dark green), and southern regions accumulated 37 to 46 inches (teal, blue, and purple).
Image Description ↓
Wisconsin map illustrating accumulated precipitation departure from 1991–2020 normals in inches from January 01, 2026, to October 05, 2026, generated by the Midwestern Regional Climate Center on October 06, 2026. Labeled locations include Eau Claire, Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee. Northern regions experienced a deficit of 4 to 12 inches below normal (brown and gold tones), while central and southern areas recorded surpluses of 2 to 12 inches above normal (light green to dark teal tones).
Soil Moisture and Temperature Trends
Soil Moisture Models
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NASA SPoRT-LIS map from Drought.gov displaying 0 to 100 cm soil moisture percentiles across Wisconsin, valid October 5, 2026. Dryness has expanded compared to the previous week, with northern and western regions covered in dark red and red shading (0 to 5th percentile). Central and southwestern regions range from 5th to 30th percentiles (orange and yellow), while small areas in the far south near Madison and along Lake Michigan remain in the 30th to 70th percentile range.
Image Description ↓
NASA SPoRT-LIS map from Drought.gov showing 0 to 100 cm soil moisture percentiles across Wisconsin, valid September 28, 2026. Northern Wisconsin experiences severe to extreme dryness, indicated by dark red and red shading representing percentiles between 0 and 5. Central Wisconsin ranges from orange to yellow (percentiles 5 to 30), while southern areas near Madison and Milwaukee show normal soil moisture levels shaded in gray (percentiles 30 to 70).
- Satellite-based soil moisture estimates indicate similar conditions compared to last week’s report.
- Dryness improved across south-central counties but worsened across west-central and northwest counties.
- Far northern counties remain much drier than normal for early October.
- 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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A Wisconet map from the Wisconsin State Climatology Office showing plant available water at 4-inch soil depth across state monitoring stations. Values range from 0.00 inches (dark brown circles) in northern and central regions near Ashland and Hancock to over 1.00 inch (light blue circles) in southern and eastern counties near Madison, Fond du Lac, and Janesville.
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A Wisconet map from the Wisconsin State Climatology Office showing plant available water at 8-inch depth across Wisconsin monitoring locations. Northern stations show lower moisture levels between 0.00 and 0.35 inches (dark brown to tan), while southern and southeastern stations indicate higher moisture availability, peaking at 2.05 inches near Fond du Lac and Lake Geneva (blue markers).
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A Wisconet map from the Wisconsin State Climatology Office showing plant available water at 20-inch depth across Wisconsin stations. Deep soil moisture is notably higher in central, southern, and eastern areas, reaching values over 5.00 inches (blue markers) near Stevens Point, Fond du Lac, and Dubuque. Northern counties continue to show drier subsoil levels ranging from 0.01 to 0.62 inches (dark brown markers).
- For Wisconet stations included in the chart and table, soil moisture change from last week was a mixed bag. In general, the change in soil moisture at the 4” depth was relatively small.
- Stations that received 0.25” or less, including Marshfield and Osseo, saw decreased soil moisture.
- Stations included in the chart and table that are currently in D1 drought are Suring (Oconto), Marshfield (Marathon), and Osseo (Trempealeau).
- Stations included in the chart and table that are currently in D2 drought are River Falls (Pierce) and Rice Lake (Barron).
- The maps (above) show the daily average Wisconet plant available water (inches) on October 5th.
- The table (below) shows total precipitation and changes in plant available water from September 28th (Start) to October 5th (End).
- What is plant available water? To learn more, read this article from UW Extension Ag Water Quality on plant available water. There is also a webinar from UW Extension on soil water management that you can watch.
- Example: Imagine that you have 4 inches of soil in the bottom of a bucket. In that soil, there are 1.5 inches of plant available water. Therefore, if you removed the soil and left only the water available for plant roots to take up, you would have 1.5 inches of water in the bottom of the bucket.
- The wilting point is when plant available water is at 0 inches, and the plant can no longer access water at that depth in the soil.
| Wisconet Station | County | Total Precipitation (in.) | 4″ Start | 4″ End | 8″ Start | 8″ End | 20″ Start | 20″ End |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arlington | Columbia | 1.46 | 0.68 | 0.81 | 1.46 | 1.59 | 3.78 | 3.91 |
| Brillion | Calumet | 0.48 | 0.55 | 0.66 | 1.31 | 1.40 | 3.99 | 4.07 |
| Hancock | Waushara | 0.29 | 0.00 | 0.01 | 0.05 | 0.07 | 0.07 | 0.07 |
| Lancaster | Grant | 1.72 | 0.91 | 0.94 | 1.89 | 1.94 | 4.89 | 5.04 |
| Marshfield | Marathon | 0.24 | 1.00 | 0.92 | 2.11 | 2.03 | 5.14 | 5.06 |
| Osseo | Trempealeau | 0.06 | 0.72 | 0.56 | 1.55 | 1.31 | 4.39 | 4.08 |
| Porter | Rock | 1.57 | 0.99 | 1.00 | 1.99 | 2.00 | 4.87 | 4.88 |
| Rice Lake | Barron | 0.67 | 0.12 | 0.27 | 0.42 | 0.64 | 1.08 | 1.32 |
| River Falls | Pierce | 0.62 | 0.25 | 0.33 | 0.79 | 1.00 | 0.79 | 1.00 |
| Suring | Oconto | 0.35 | 0.29 | 0.28 | 0.50 | 0.48 | 0.50 | 0.48 |
| Walworth | Walworth | 2.11 | 0.94 | 1.04 | 1.93 | 2.05 | 4.94 | 5.07 |
| Wisconet Station | Current 4″ Soil Moisture | Last Week’s 4″ Soil Moisture | 1 Month Ago 4″ Soil Moisture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arlington | 0.81 | 0.68 | 0.82 |
| Brillion | 0.66 | 0.55 | 0.59 |
| Hancock | 0.01 | 0.00 | 0.09 |
| Lancaster | 0.94 | 0.91 | 0.84 |
| Marshfield | 0.92 | 1.00 | 1.02 |
| Osseo | 0.56 | 0.72 | 0.81 |
| Porter | 1.00 | 0.99 | 0.95 |
| Rice Lake | 0.27 | 0.12 | 0.01 |
| River Falls | 0.33 | 0.25 | 0.04 |
| Suring | 0.28 | 0.29 | 0.60 |
| Walworth | 1.04 | 0.94 | 1.05 |
USDA Soil Moisture Reports
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USDA map displaying topsoil moisture percent adequate for the week ending October 4, 2026, including weekly changes in brackets. The 48-state national average is 52 percent adequate, reflecting a 4-point increase from the previous week. State adequate ratings range from a low of 10 percent in Nevada (0) to 100 percent in Rhode Island (0) and Connecticut (0). Wisconsin records 74 percent (+11), Iowa 58 percent (0), Illinois 55 percent (-5), and Minnesota 63 percent (+5).
Image Description ↓
A USDA map illustrating subsoil moisture conditions as percent adequate for the week ending October 4, 2026, with changes from the prior week in brackets. Nationally across 48 states, 49 percent of subsoil moisture is rated adequate, up 3 points from last week. State values range from 10 percent in Arkansas (-1) and 100 percent in Rhode Island (+10) and Connecticut (+10). Wisconsin stands at 64 percent adequate (+1), Iowa at 55 percent (+3), Illinois at 55 percent (-4), and Minnesota at 59 percent (+8).
- 67% and 66% of agricultural soils in the state are reported as having adequate topsoil and subsoil moisture, respectively. Both values increased from the previous week.
- 20% and 24% of agricultural soils in the state are reported as having short to very short topsoil and subsoil moisture, respectively. Both values decreased from the previous week.
Wisconet Soil Temperature
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Wisconet map showing 4-inch soil temperatures in degrees Fahrenheit across Wisconsin monitoring sites. Soil temperatures range between 51 and 62 degrees Fahrenheit state-wide, indicated by bright green to yellow circles. Northern stations near Duluth, Ashland, and Rhinelander display cooler temperatures between 51.4 and 54.9 degrees, while southern and eastern stations near Milwaukee, Racine, and La Crosse show warmer soil temperatures from 58.3 to 61.9 degrees.
Image Description ↓
A Wisconet map displaying 8-inch depth soil temperatures in degrees Fahrenheit across Wisconsin stations. Soil temperatures at this depth range from 53.1 degrees Fahrenheit in northern regions near Rhinelander to 62.4 degrees Fahrenheit near Milwaukee (represented by green and yellow circles). Overall, soil temperatures show a steady gradient from cooler in the north to warmer in the south.
Image Description ↓
Wisconet map displaying 20-inch soil temperatures in degrees Fahrenheit across Wisconsin monitoring stations as of October 5, 2026. Temperatures statewide range from 55.2 to 63.9 degrees Fahrenheit, marked by light green and yellow circles. Northern stations show lower temperatures ranging from 55.2 to 59.0 degrees, while central and southern stations record higher temperatures between 59.7 and 63.9 degrees.
- The maps show daily average Wisconet soil temperature conditions on October 5th.
U.S. Drought Monitor
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U.S. Drought Monitor map for the Midwest, valid October 6, 2026. The most extensive severe drought conditions are across northern Wisconsin and nearby parts of Minnesota and Michigan, where areas range from severe drought (D2) to exceptional drought (D4). Extreme to exceptional drought also appears in southwestern Missouri. Abnormally dry to moderate drought conditions occur in several other areas, including parts of Minnesota, Michigan, Missouri, Kentucky and nearby states. Across the Midwest region, 54.46% has no drought designation, while 45.54% is abnormally dry or in drought. Moderate drought or worse covers 27.76%, severe drought or worse 13.91%, extreme drought or worse 5.06%, and exceptional drought 0.52%. Released October 8, 2026. Source: U.S. Drought Monitor.
Compared to last week:
- Midwest: Drought coverage changed minimally from last week’s report (<1%). 1 class degradation was common across the UP of Michigan.
- 72.2% of the Midwest region is drought free (~27.8% in D1-D4).
Image Description ↓
. U.S. Drought Monitor map for Wisconsin, valid October 6, 2026. Drought is concentrated across northern Wisconsin. Exceptional drought (D4) covers 4.47% of the state, extreme drought (D3–D4) 20.43%, severe drought or worse (D2–D4) 40.50%, and moderate drought or worse (D1–D4) 50.61%. Abnormally dry conditions or worse (D0–D4) cover 54.81%, while 45.19% of Wisconsin has no drought designation. The most severe conditions are in north-central Wisconsin, with D3 and D4 areas surrounded by severe and moderate drought. Most of southern Wisconsin has no drought designation, with some abnormally dry conditions extending across the transition into central Wisconsin. Released October 8, 2026. Source: U.S. Drought Monitor.
- Wisconsin: Exceptional (D4) drought increased in coverage across the far north.
Image Description ↓
U.S. Drought Monitor Class Change map for Wisconsin comparing October 6, 2026, with September 29, 2026. Most of northern Wisconsin shows no change. Scattered areas across northern Wisconsin and along the Lake Michigan shoreline show one-class degradation. A band across parts of southwestern and south-central Wisconsin shows one-class improvement, with a small area of improvement near Door County. Most of southern and southeastern Wisconsin has no indicated class change. The legend ranges from five classes of degradation to five classes of improvement. Source: National Drought Mitigation Center, droughtmonitor.unl.edu.
- Wisconsin: Drought coverage (D1-D4) decreased overall by 2%.
U.S. Drought Monitor Time Series
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Wisconsin Drought Time Series (USDM) chart showing the percentage of the state in drought categories from April 28 through October 6, 2026. Abnormally dry or worse (D0–D4) increased sharply from about 2% in mid-May to 90% in early June. After declining through early July, D0–D4 rose again, peaking near 95% on September 1 before falling to about 55% by October 6. Moderate drought or worse (D1–D4) reached about 72% in mid-August and was 50% on October 6. Severe drought or worse (D2–D4) rose to about 45% in mid-September and ended near 40%. Extreme drought or worse (D3–D4) reached about 20% by late September, while exceptional drought (D4) appeared in September and reached about 4% by October 6.
- D0 coverage = 54.8%; D1 coverage = 50.6%; D2 coverage = 40.5%; D3 coverage = 20.4%; D4 coverage = 4.5%
Temperature Trends
7 Day Temperatures
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Wisconsin map depicting average temperatures in degrees Fahrenheit from September 29, 2026, to October 05, 2026, generated by the Midwestern Regional Climate Center using PRISM Weather Data on October 06, 2026. Key cities listed are Eau Claire, Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee. Most of the state recorded average temperatures between 55 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit (light green shading), while extreme northern regions averaged 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit (green shading) and minor scattered southern border areas reached 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit (yellow shading).
Image Description ↓
Wisconsin map illustrating the average temperature departure in degrees Fahrenheit from 1991–2020 normals for September 29, 2026, through October 05, 2026, produced by the Midwestern Regional Climate Center on October 06, 2026. Major marked cities include Eau Claire, Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee. Across the entire state, temperatures ranged from 1 to 6 degrees Fahrenheit above normal (light yellow to dark yellow shading), with small isolated northern and central pockets reaching 6 to 9 degrees Fahrenheit above normal (gold shading).
- Average temperatures were in the mid to upper 50’s across most of the state.
- Temperatures were 3-6°F above normal across most of the state. In the southeast, temperatures were 1-3°F above normal.
30 Day Temperatures
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Wisconsin map displaying average temperature distributions in degrees Fahrenheit for the 30-day period from September 06, 2026, to October 05, 2026, created by the Midwestern Regional Climate Center on October 06, 2026. Labeled locations are Eau Claire, Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee. Northern Wisconsin averaged 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit (medium green), central regions averaged 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (light green), and southern regions averaged 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit (pale yellow).
Image Description ↓
Wisconsin map detailing average temperature departure from 1991–2020 normals in degrees Fahrenheit between September 06, 2026, and October 05, 2026, published by the Midwestern Regional Climate Center on October 06, 2026. Cities on the map include Eau Claire, Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee. Most of the state experienced near-normal to slightly above-normal temperatures, ranging from 0 to 2 degrees Fahrenheit above normal (white and cream shading), with northern and central areas seeing departures up to 2 to 4 degrees Fahrenheit above normal (yellow shading).
Growing Degree Days (Base 50°F)
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A Wisconsin map displaying accumulated Growing Degree Days with a base of 50 degrees Fahrenheit from May 01, 2026, to October 05, 2026, published by the Midwestern Regional Climate Center and USDA on October 06, 2026. Labeled cities include Eau Claire, Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee. Values range from under 1,810 GDD in the northernmost counties (purple and dark blue shading) up to 2,880 to 2,990 GDD in southern border counties (orange and red shading). Central regions fall around 2,240 to 2,560 GDD (cyan and green shading).
Image Description ↓
Wisconsin map displaying accumulated Growing Degree Days with a base of 50 degrees Fahrenheit from May 15, 2026, to October 05, 2026, created by the Midwestern Regional Climate Center and USDA on October 06, 2026. Key cities that are marked include Eau Claire, Green Bay, Madison, and Milwaukee. Accumulated GDD totals increase from north to south, starting below 1,810 GDD along the Lake Superior border (purple), transitioning through 2,110 to 2,420 GDD across central Wisconsin (blue and green), and reaching 2,730 to 2,930 GDD across southern Wisconsin (orange and red).
- Starting May 1 – Growing degree day accumulation ranges from 2990 GDD in the far south and west to 2030 GDD in the far north. These values are 110-115% of normal.
- Starting May 15 – Growing degree day accumulation ranges from 2930 GDD in the far south and west to 2010 GDD in the far north. These values are 110-115% of normal.
Crop Progress and Condition
Crop Progress Report for Corn
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USDA map showing corn conditions as percent good to excellent as of October 04, 2026, including the change from the previous week in brackets. The national condition for good to excellent corn is 54 percent, down 3 points from last week. State values range from a high of 81 percent in Tennessee (no change) to a low of 14 percent in North Carolina (no change). Wisconsin is at 59 percent (no change), Iowa is at 72 percent (-3), Illinois is at 58 percent (-2), and Indiana is at 61 percent (no change).
Image Description ↓
USDA map showing corn maturity progress as of October 04, 2026, along with the difference from the 5-year average in brackets. National progress stands at 83 percent mature, matching the 5-year average. Michigan shows the largest delay at 30 percent mature (-34 from average), followed by Colorado at 49 percent (-15) and Ohio at 53 percent (-17). North Carolina has the highest maturity at 95 percent (-2). Wisconsin is at 72 percent (+2), Iowa at 85 percent (-3), and Illinois at 92 percent (+4).
Crop Progress Report for Soybeans
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USDA map depicting soybean conditions as percent good to excellent as of October 04, 2026, with weekly changes noted in brackets. The national condition is 57 percent good to excellent, down 1 point from the previous week. State ratings range from 71 percent in Indiana (-4), Kentucky (0), and Tennessee (0) to 35 percent in North Dakota (+4) and Kansas (-1). Wisconsin is at 58 percent (+1), Iowa is at 70 percent (-4), Illinois is at 58 percent (-2), and Minnesota is at 58 percent (0).
Image Description ↓
A USDA map that illustrates the percentage of soybeans dropping leaves as of October 04, 2026, including the departure from the 5-year average in brackets. National progress is 85 percent, 2 points behind the 5-year average. Significant delays occur in Ohio at 65 percent (-23) and Michigan at 70 percent (-19). Louisiana and Mississippi lead progress at 98 percent (+5 and +7, respectively). Wisconsin stands at 88 percent (+3), Iowa at 81 percent (-9), Illinois at 87 percent (-3), and Minnesota at 94 percent (+2).
- Wisconsin had 4.3 days suitable for fieldwork statewide.
- 88% of the state’s soybeans are dropping leaves, with 11% of soybeans harvested.
- Corn is 72% at maturity and 8% harvested.
- Corn silage harvest is 87% complete.
- Corn and soybean conditions are 59% and 58% good to excellent, respectively. The soybean value is up 1% from last week’s report.
- Winter wheat is 48% planted and 24% emerged.
- Pasture and range were rated 40% good to excellent, down 2% from last week.
- Read the full USDA report.
Forecasts and Outlooks
7 Day Precipitation Forecast
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The 7-Day Quantitative Precipitation Forecast for October 8–15, 2026, shows predicted precipitation across Wisconsin. Much of central, southern, and eastern Wisconsin is forecast to receive approximately 0.01 to 0.1 inch. Parts of western and northern Wisconsin are forecast around 0.1 to 0.25 inch, with areas in the northwest reaching approximately 0.25 to 0.75 inch. The legend ranges from 0 to 20 inches. Source: National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center. Last updated October 8, 2026.
- When? – Rain chances are highest on Monday (10/12) and Wednesday (10/14).
- Where? – Rain chances are highest in northwest counties, with lesser totals further to the east.
- Average precip (1991-2020) for this week: 0.72”.
7 Day Frost/Freeze Outlook
- Over the next 7 days, overnight low temperatures in the north could dip below freezing on Tuesday-Thursday mornings (10/13-10/15).
- Chance of a below-freezing overnight low before October 15th –> 75-100% in northern counties; 50-90% in southern counties (odds are lower closer to Lake Michigan and the Mississippi River)
- To get the latest 7-day frost and freeze guidance, check out the NWS Frost Freeze Decision Support Services Page.
8-14 Day Temperature and Precipitation Outlook
Image Description ↓
The 8–14 Day Precipitation Outlook for October 15–21, 2026, shows all of Wisconsin shaded gray, indicating near-normal precipitation is favored statewide. The legend also shows probabilities from 33% to 100% for below-normal and above-normal precipitation, but neither category is indicated within Wisconsin. Source: Climate Prediction Center. Last updated October 7, 2026.
Image Description ↓
The 8–14 Day Temperature Outlook for October 15–21, 2026, shows Wisconsin shaded pale yellow, corresponding to a 33–40% probability of above-normal temperatures. The outlook covers the entire state, including Madison and Milwaukee. Source: Climate Prediction Center. Last updated October 7, 2026.
- Mid-to-Late October: Temperatures are leaning above normal statewide (33-40% for most), with precipitation leaning towards near normal.
- Statewide normals (1991-2020) for October 16-22 are 45.5°F and 0.67”.
30 Day Temperature and Precipitation Outlook
Image Description ↓
Map titled Monthly Precipitation Outlook for October 1–31, 2026, published by Drought.gov. Map displays Wisconsin and neighboring Midwestern states with a tan region covering northwestern and western Wisconsin, indicating a 33 to 40 percent probability of below-normal precipitation. The remaining eastern and southern portions of Wisconsin are unshaded white, representing equal chances or near-normal precipitation levels. Legends at bottom outline probability bands for below-normal, above-normal, and near-normal precipitation. Source: Climate Prediction Center, last updated September 30, 2026.
Image Description ↓
Map titled Monthly Temperature Outlook for October 1–31, 2026, from Drought.gov. Northwestern Wisconsin and regions directly west are shaded in orange, showing a 40 to 50 percent probability of above-normal temperatures. The rest of central, eastern, and southern Wisconsin is shaded pale yellow, indicating a 33 to 40 percent probability of above-normal temperatures. Legend defines probability ranges for below-normal, above-normal, and near-normal temperatures. Source: Climate Prediction Center, last updated September 30, 2026.
- October: Temperatures are leaning above normal across the western half of Wisconsin (33-40% odds). Precipitation is leaning below normal across the central and northern counties (33-50% odds).
- In October, overnight lows will start dropping below freezing across Wisconsin. Use the MRCC freeze date tool to explore when your county’s average first fall freeze occurs.
- Statewide normals (1991-2020) for October 1-31 are 46.8°F and 3.01”.
90 Day Temperature and Precipitation Outlook
Image Description ↓
Map titled Seasonal (3-Month) Precipitation Outlook for October 1–December 31, 2026, from Drought.gov. The map covers Wisconsin and surrounding Great Lakes regions. Wisconsin itself is unshaded white, indicating equal chances for above, below, or near-normal precipitation. A small light tan area in northern Lake Michigan and Upper Michigan indicates a 33 to 40 percent probability of below-normal precipitation, while a light green area in southwest Iowa indicates a 33 to 40 percent probability of above-normal precipitation. Legends define color percentages for precipitation tendencies. Source: Climate Prediction Center, last updated September 17, 2026.
Image Description ↓
Map titled Seasonal (3-Month) Temperature Outlook for October 1–December 31, 2026, from Drought.gov. The map shows the entire state of Wisconsin and surrounding Great Lakes states covered in uniform light orange shading, indicating a 40 to 50 percent probability of above-normal temperatures across the region. A small area in extreme western Minnesota displays a slightly darker orange band indicating 50 to 60 percent probability. Color keys at the bottom outline scales for below-normal, above-normal, and near-normal conditions. Source: Climate Prediction Center, last updated September 17, 2026.
- Oct-Dec: Across all of Wisconsin, temperatures are showing an above-normal lean (40-50% odds), with precipitation uncertain with “equal chances”.
- Statewide normals (1991-2020) for Oct-Dec are 33.9°F and 6.52”.
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