Today's barometric pressure in Madison, a 48-hour pressure chart, and a risk score for weather-triggered migraine and headache, based on pressure drops, humidity, and temperature changes.
Loading live forecast for Madison...
Madison's isthmus location between two lakes creates localized weather effects. The city's position in southern Wisconsin means full exposure to Midwest weather volatility, with Alberta Clippers and Gulf moisture both reaching the area.
Worst season for migraines: October through April. Madison's isthmus position between Lakes Mendota and Monona creates unique microclimate effects that compound broader weather patterns. Alberta Clippers and polar vortex events produce extreme pressure swings in winter, while spring brings volatile conditions as lake ice breaks up and modifies the local atmosphere.
Common triggers in Madison: Alberta Clipper rapid pressure drops, lake-modified wind and pressure patterns from the Yahara chain lakes, extreme winter cold creating vascular constriction. Madison is built on a narrow isthmus between two sizable lakes in the Yahara River chain, with two additional lakes nearby. These water bodies moderate temperatures but create local wind and moisture effects that differentiate Madison's microclimate from surrounding farmland. The lakes delay spring warming and extend fall warmth, shifting the city's seasonal patterns relative to nearby areas and creating local pressure differentials on breezy days.
Typical pressure: Madison averages 984 hPa at rest, measured at the city's own elevation rather than corrected to sea level, and storm systems can push readings down to 966 hPa. Swings of 7-16 hPa over 24 hours are common during active weather and fall within the range most associated with pressure-triggered migraines.
2026 index: Madison ranks #29 of 100 in our 2026 U.S. Migraine Risk Index, where #1 is the most challenging city for weather-driven migraine.
Can Madison weather trigger migraines?
Yes. Madison experiences 7-16 hPa barometric pressure swings, and research shows pressure drops are one of the most common migraine triggers. The city's specific patterns include Alberta Clipper rapid pressure drops, lake-modified wind and pressure patterns from the Yahara chain lakes, extreme winter cold creating vascular constriction.
What time of year are migraines worst in Madison?
In Madison the most barometrically volatile stretch of the year falls in October through April. That is when weather is most likely to play a part, if weather is a trigger for you at all. See when migraine weather season starts across the U.S.
Is there a barometric pressure headache forecast for Madison?
This page works as one. Many people call a headache that arrives with a weather change a barometric pressure headache, and this forecast tracks the pressure drops, humidity and temperature swings behind that idea. The score covers the next 24 hours in Madison and the chart shows the next 48. It is built on migraine research, so treat it as a rough guide for other headaches. A sudden, severe headache needs urgent medical care, whatever the weather.
Your own forecast
This page shows the weather risk for everyone in Madison. The MigrAid app learns yours. It saves the barometric pressure, humidity and temperature with every migraine you log, shows whether Madison's swings really line up with your attacks, and alerts you when conditions match your own trigger history.