A brutal Arctic air mass is set to grip Minnesota this weekend, plunging temperatures well below zero and making wind chills dangerously cold. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued wind chill warnings and advisories, warning that frostbite could occur in just minutes for anyone exposed to the elements. This polar vortex-driven cold snap will bring some of the coldest temperatures of the season, with lows dipping as far as -25°F in northern areas. High winds will make it feel even colder, with wind chills reaching a life-threatening -40°F in some places.
Saturday: Cold Air Begins to Take Hold
The Arctic front arrives Saturday, and temperatures will steadily drop throughout the day.
- Minneapolis: Cloudy early, then clearing, with temperatures falling to 10°F (-12°C) by evening. Overnight lows will drop to -5°F (-20°C).
- Duluth: A mix of clouds and sun, with increasing winds. Highs near 8°F (-13°C), dropping to -15°F (-26°C) overnight.
- Rochester: Bitterly cold with a high of 12°F (-11°C), plunging to -7°F (-22°C) overnight.
By late Saturday night, wind chills could make it feel as cold as -30°F in northern parts of the state.
Sunday: Dangerous Cold Takes Over
Sunday will bring the coldest air of the winter so far, as temperatures struggle to rise.
- Minneapolis: High of just -2°F (-19°C), with a brutal wind chill making it feel like -30°F. Overnight lows dip to -17°F (-27°C).
- Duluth: Even colder, with a high of -5°F (-21°C), dropping to -20°F (-29°C) at night.
- Rochester: Highs will stay near 0°F (-18°C), but with wind chills as low as -35°F.
Forecasters are warning that in these conditions, frostbite can set in within 5-10 minutes on exposed skin.
Monday: The Cold Lingers
This dangerous cold will persist into Monday, keeping temperatures well below freezing.
- Minneapolis: A frigid high of -3°F (-19°C), with a morning low of -17°F (-27°C).
- Duluth: Highs near -6°F (-21°C), with wind chills making it feel like -40°F.
- Rochester: A brutal start to the week, with temperatures hovering near -5°F (-20°C) all day.
High winds will continue to make outdoor conditions extremely hazardous, and officials urge people to avoid unnecessary travel.
How to Stay Safe During This Life-Threatening Cold
With temperatures this extreme, even short exposure can be dangerous. Here’s how to protect yourself:
- Avoid Going Outside If Possible – Wind chills below -30°F can cause frostbite in just minutes.
- Layer Up – If you must go outside, wear multiple layers, thick gloves, and cover all exposed skin.
- Prepare for Power Outages – Cold weather can strain power grids, so keep blankets, flashlights, and emergency supplies ready.
- Check on Elderly Neighbors and Pets – Make sure they have heat and shelter—this type of cold can be deadly.
- Keep Your Car Emergency Kit Ready – If you get stranded, staying in your vehicle could save your life. Keep extra blankets, food, and a phone charger in your car.
This Cold Could Be Deadly
This isn’t just another winter cold snap—this is dangerous, Arctic-level cold that could put lives at risk. Frostbite, hypothermia, and power outages are all serious threats. Stay indoors, stay warm, and don’t take unnecessary risks. This cold wave will be one of the worst this winter—be prepared and stay safe!