CHICAGO, IL – A dangerous Arctic blast is set to bring life-threatening cold and heavy snowfall across the Central U.S. this week, with wind chills dropping as low as -60°F in some areas. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued wind chill warnings, winter storm alerts, and travel advisories, warning residents of extreme frostbite risk and hazardous conditions.
What to Expect
🌡 Historic Cold Temperatures – The polar vortex will send temperatures plummeting well below zero, with actual air temperatures as low as -30°F in parts of the Midwest and Great Plains.
💨 Extreme Wind Chills – Combined with strong winds of 30-50 mph, some areas will feel like -50°F to -60°F, making frostbite possible in less than five minutes.
❄ Disruptive Snowfall – Heavy snowfall of 6 to 12 inches is expected in many areas, with some locations seeing over a foot of snow.
🚧 Dangerous Travel Conditions – Blowing snow and icy roads will make travel nearly impossible in affected states.
Areas Most Impacted
📍 North Dakota & South Dakota: Wind chills down to -60°F, blizzard conditions possible
📍 Minnesota & Wisconsin: Wind chills below -50°F, heavy snow accumulations
📍 Iowa & Nebraska: Wind chills of -40°F to -50°F, dangerous travel conditions
📍 Illinois & Missouri: Frigid air and snowfall creating treacherous road conditions
📍 Kansas & Oklahoma: Ice and snow mix, causing dangerous driving conditions
Travel & Power Outage Concerns
🚨 Flight Disruptions: Expect widespread delays and cancellations at Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), and Denver International (DEN).
⚠ Road Closures: Major highways, including Interstates 70, 80, and 90, may see shutdowns due to blizzard conditions.
💡 Power Outages Possible: Extreme cold increases energy demand, which may lead to rolling blackouts or heating issues in some areas.
Safety Precautions
✔ Stay Indoors: Avoid unnecessary travel and limit time outside to prevent frostbite.
✔ Bundle Up: If going outside, wear multiple layers, gloves, hats, and insulated boots.
✔ Prepare for Power Outages: Have extra blankets, flashlights, and non-perishable food ready.
✔ Check on Vulnerable Neighbors: Elderly and at-risk individuals may need assistance in extreme cold.
✔ Keep Pets Safe: Bring animals indoors to prevent exposure-related illnesses.
What’s Next?
The Arctic blast is expected to last through the end of the week, with some relief by the weekend as temperatures slowly start to recover. However, additional snow and freezing conditions may persist, making cleanup and travel difficult for days.
For real-time updates and emergency alerts, stay tuned to the National Weather Service (NWS) and local news stations. Be prepared, stay warm, and take precautions to stay safe during this dangerous cold snap!