The frigid embrace of winter has descended upon Minnesota as the state braces for a brutal cold snap starting Sunday night.
With temperatures expected to plummet into the teens and 20s below zero, and wind chills that could reach an eye-watering -40° in some areas, this weather event is a stark reminder of nature’s raw power.
Here’s what you need to know about this extreme cold event, how it will unfold, and what you can do to stay safe.
What’s Happening: Arctic Cold Grips Minnesota
The National Weather Service has issued extreme cold warnings for vast portions of western and northwestern Minnesota, extending into neighboring South Dakota and North Dakota.
Cities in these areas will face wind chills between -30° and -40°, creating dangerously cold conditions. Meanwhile, eastern Minnesota counties, including the Twin Cities, fall under a cold weather advisory, with wind chills remaining in the lower to mid-30s below zero.
This Arctic blast isn’t just any routine winter chill.
Meteorologists have flagged the coming days as particularly treacherous, prompting warnings and advisories statewide.
The Twin Cities metro area will transition to an extreme cold watch starting Monday, which will persist through Tuesday.
During this period, the peak of the cold snap, temperatures will approach their most severe levels.
Tuesday Morning: The Coldest Day
Brace yourselves for a bone-chilling Tuesday morning.
Overnight wind chills are forecasted to plunge to between -35° and -45°. These temperatures are not only hazardous for prolonged exposure but can also create issues with infrastructure, transportation, and public safety.
Highs during the day will struggle to climb out of the single digits, while low temperatures will hover in the mid-teens below zero through Tuesday night and into Wednesday.
It’s a sobering reminder that preparedness is key.
These extreme conditions can cause frostbite on exposed skin within minutes, and hypothermia can set in quickly without proper clothing and shelter.
When Will Relief Arrive?
Thankfully, this brutal cold won’t last forever.
Beginning Thursday, temperatures will start to climb gradually, offering a glimmer of hope for residents who’ve endured days of unrelenting Arctic air.
By next Sunday, high temperatures are expected to reach around 40°F—a nearly 80° swing from the most extreme readings earlier in the week.
Why Is Minnesota So Cold?
While Minnesota is no stranger to cold winters, this particular event is the result of a deep plunge of Arctic air being funneled southward.
Such cold snaps occur when the polar vortex—a band of low-pressure swirling near the North Pole—weakens, allowing frigid air to spill farther south than usual.
For Midwestern states like Minnesota, this means dangerously low temperatures, often accompanied by brisk winds that exacerbate the chill.
While these events can feel extreme, they are not unprecedented.
Minnesota holds a legacy of weathering some of the harshest conditions in the contiguous United States, and the resilience of its residents is part of the state’s identity.
How to Stay Safe in Extreme Cold
Surviving subzero temperatures requires preparation, vigilance, and attention to safety guidelines. Here are some key tips to navigate this cold wave:
- Layer Up: Wear multiple layers of thermal clothing. Focus on insulating materials like wool or synthetic fabrics designed to trap heat.
- Protect Exposed Skin: Frostbite can occur within minutes. Ensure your face, hands, and feet are well-covered when outdoors.
- Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid prolonged exposure to the cold, especially during peak morning hours when wind chills are at their lowest.
- Prepare Your Vehicle: Keep emergency supplies like blankets, water, and a fully charged phone in your car in case of roadside emergencies.
- Monitor Vulnerable Individuals: Check on elderly neighbors, children, and pets who are particularly susceptible to the cold.
Stay Informed
Finally, staying informed is critical.
Local forecasts and updates play a pivotal role in preparing for extreme weather. Tune in to trusted sources like FOX 9’s weather team or the National Weather Service for real-time alerts and advice.
Looking Ahead to Milder Weather
While Minnesota faces a challenging week ahead, it’s comforting to know that this Arctic blast is temporary.
By the weekend, the mercury will climb to more tolerable levels, and a January thaw will bring much-needed relief.
Until then, take every precaution, bundle up, and remember that warmer days are just around the corner.
The sheer power of these temperature extremes is a reminder of both the beauty and harshness of the natural world.
Stay safe, Minnesota, and keep winter’s frosty grip at bay.
Here is the source article for this story: Minnesota weather: Extreme cold warnings for Sunday night through Monday morning