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Wisconsin Marks 30 Years Since Record-Breaking Cold Snap
The state experienced its coldest temperatures on record during the first four days of February 1996.
Feb. 3, 2026 at 6:31pm
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This week marks the 30th anniversary of Wisconsin's coldest outbreak on record, which occurred during the first four days of February 1996. Temperatures plunged to historic lows, with the small village of Couderay in Sawyer County recording the state's coldest temperature ever at minus 55 degrees. The bitter cold extended across Northeast Wisconsin, with residents facing severe challenges starting their cars and dealing with subzero temperatures.
Why it matters
This extreme cold snap was one of the coldest stretches in Wisconsin's history, with average temperatures across the state reaching negative 18 degrees. The record-breaking temperatures highlight the state's vulnerability to severe winter weather and the importance of preparedness for such events.
The details
During the four-day cold snap, temperatures in Green Bay dropped to 26 below zero, Appleton fell to 28 below, and Oshkosh reached 25 below. Sturgeon Bay and Marinette both recorded 27 below, not accounting for windchill. Many residents struggled to start their cars, with some resorting to renting vehicles.
- The cold snap began on January 30th at 4 p.m. and lasted for 137 straight hours.
- On February 2 and again on February 4, 1996, the small village of Couderay in Sawyer County recorded the state's coldest temperature ever at minus 55 degrees.
- On the morning of February 2, 1996, temperatures in Green Bay dropped to 26 below zero, Appleton fell to 28 below, and Oshkosh reached 25 below.
- On February 4, Oshkosh dropped to 30 below, Green Bay plunged to 24 below, and Sturgeon Bay hit 23 below.
- Across the Northwoods, morning lows ranged from negative 30 to 40, and daytime highs remained below zero.
The players
Jeff Last
A now-retired Warning Coordination Meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Green Bay.
What they’re saying
“We have been below zero for 137 straight hours, all beginning on January 30th at 4 p.m.”
— Jeff Last, Warning Coordination Meteorologist
“Is your car not starting?”
— Avis car rental receptionist
“It's never not started before, he doesn't know if he can get it started today either.”
— Northeast Wisconsin resident
What’s next
The National Weather Service in Green Bay will likely commemorate the 30th anniversary of the record-breaking cold snap with a special event or media coverage highlighting the historical significance of the event and its impact on the region.
The takeaway
The 1996 cold snap in Wisconsin serves as a stark reminder of the state's vulnerability to extreme winter weather and the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of such events. As the climate continues to change, it is crucial for communities to be proactive in developing strategies to mitigate the risks and impacts of severe cold snaps and other extreme weather patterns.
