Minnesota is in for a frosty night. The National Weather Service has warned that temperatures will drop significantly, with wind chills reaching as low as 35 below zero. This extreme cold can cause frostbite on exposed skin in just 10 minutes. It's crucial to stay warm and protected.
The advisory is in effect from tonight until 9:00 am Thursday morning. If you must go outside, dress in layers, including a hat, face mask, and gloves. Keep your pets indoors as much as possible. The southern part of Minnesota and western Wisconsin might see some light snow, making roads slippery.
The cold snap will continue, with low temperatures well below zero for many nights. Friday might bring a brief respite with temperatures rebounding into the 20s, but it's just a one-day break from the prolonged cold stretch.
Duluth, Faribault, Owatonna, Rochester, and St. Cloud will experience varying high temperatures throughout the week. Duluth will see a high of 8 on Thursday, while Faribault and Owatonna will reach 24 on Friday. Rochester will hit 25 on Friday, and St. Cloud will see a high of 4 on Saturday. Sunday will be particularly cold, with temperatures dropping to 5 in Duluth and 3 in Faribault.
It's important to check on older family, friends, and neighbors during this cold spell. Make sure portable heaters are used correctly and never use generators or grills indoors. If you have to travel, be cautious and dress appropriately.
The extreme cold is a reminder of Minnesota's harsh winters. It's a good time to think about how to stay safe and warm during such conditions. It's also a good time to think about how climate change might be affecting these weather patterns.
