Minnesota is in the grip of a dangerous Arctic outbreak, with wind chills expected to plummet to an unbearable -45°F through Tuesday. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Warning, urging residents to stay indoors, bundle up, and take precautions to avoid frostbite and hypothermia.
This brutal cold is more than just uncomfortable—it’s life-threatening. Exposed skin can freeze in just 10 minutes, and the extreme temperatures could overwhelm power grids, cause vehicle failures, and turn roads into ice-covered hazards. Officials are warning residents that this cold is not to be taken lightly and could be the coldest air of the season.
How Cold Will It Get?
The Arctic blast will remain in place through Tuesday, keeping temperatures well below zero across the state. But with strong winds factored in, the real feel will be even worse. Here’s what different areas can expect:
- Minneapolis – The current temperature is -10°F, but wind chills will make it feel closer to -45°F overnight. Highs will barely climb above zero this week.
- Duluth – Mostly cloudy skies, with temperatures dropping to -16°F, but wind chills could make it feel as low as -45°F.
- Rochester – Clear skies, but dangerously cold. Actual temps near -15°F, wind chills making it feel like -45°F.
Major Risks and Dangers
This isn’t just another cold spell—this level of extreme cold is dangerous and could turn deadly if proper precautions aren’t taken. Residents need to be aware of the following risks:
- Frostbite & Hypothermia – Exposed skin can freeze in just 10 minutes, leading to severe frostbite. Hypothermia can set in quickly, even indoors if heat isn’t maintained properly.
- Power Outages – The high demand for electricity could strain power grids, potentially leading to blackouts that would leave thousands without heat.
- Frozen Pipes & Home Damage – Water pipes are at high risk of freezing and bursting, which could cause thousands of dollars in damage.
- Treacherous Travel Conditions – Roads could become icy and nearly impossible to drive on, and vehicles may struggle to start due to the extreme cold. If you get stranded, the cold could become deadly.
How to Stay Safe During This Arctic Freeze
With temperatures this low, staying prepared is key. Officials are urging residents to take these steps immediately:
- Stay indoors as much as possible. If you have to go outside, layer up with insulated gloves, thick socks, a hat, and a face covering to protect against frostbite.
- Avoid unnecessary travel. If you must drive, keep an emergency kit in your car with blankets, food, water, extra batteries, and a fully charged phone in case of emergencies.
- Prepare for possible power outages. Charge all essential devices in advance, have flashlights, extra blankets, and backup heating sources ready, and never use a generator indoors due to carbon monoxide risks.
- Bring pets inside. If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them! Ensure they have warm bedding, access to unfrozen water, and proper shelter.
- Check on elderly neighbors and vulnerable individuals. Make sure they have enough supplies and a warm place to stay throughout the deep freeze.
How Long Will This Last?
The dangerous cold will last through Tuesday, with daytime highs struggling to get above zero and overnight lows dipping dangerously low. Even after Tuesday, Minnesota will remain in a deep freeze for the rest of the week, so residents should stay prepared.
