Minnesota Braces for Brutal Cold; Wind Chills to Plunge Below Zero
A dangerous arctic air mass is settling over the state, bringing potentially life-threatening conditions.
- Temperatures are expected to plummet overnight, with wind chills reaching -40 to -55 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The Minnesota Department of Public Safety is urging residents to limit outdoor exposure and take precautions against frostbite and hypothermia.
- Schools and businesses are announcing closures and delays as the extreme cold approaches.
- The cold weather is expected to persist through Thursday morning.
Minnesota residents are preparing for a bone-chilling blast of arctic air that’s poised to make even a quick trip outside perilous. The dangerously cold temperatures, combined with strong winds, will create wind chills as low as -55 degrees Fahrenheit across much of the state. This isn’t just uncomfortable; it’s a serious threat to health and safety.
What to Expect: A Deep Freeze Descends
As of 10:01 PM CST Wednesday, January 7, 2026, temperatures were already dropping rapidly across Minnesota. The National Weather Service issued a Wind Chill Warning for nearly all of the state, effective from 6 PM Wednesday through noon Thursday. The warning area includes major cities like Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, and Rochester.
Impact on Daily Life
The impending cold has already begun to disrupt daily life. Numerous school districts announced closures and delays for Thursday, January 8, 2026, including Minneapolis Public Schools and St. Paul Public Schools. Several businesses are also adjusting their hours or closing altogether to protect employees and customers.
Safety Precautions: Staying Warm and Safe
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety is strongly advising residents to limit their time outdoors during this extreme cold. If you must venture outside, officials recommend dressing in layers, covering exposed skin, and avoiding strenuous activity. “Frostbite can occur in a matter of minutes with these wind chills,” warned a spokesperson for the department. “It’s crucial to take this seriously.”
Recognizing the Signs of Frostbite and Hypothermia
Symptoms of frostbite include numbness, pale or waxy skin, and a loss of feeling in the affected area. Hypothermia symptoms include shivering, confusion, drowsiness, and slurred speech. If you suspect someone is experiencing frostbite or hypothermia, seek medical attention immediately.
The extreme cold is expected to linger through Thursday morning, with temperatures slowly moderating by the afternoon. However, officials caution that even a slight warming will not eliminate the risk of cold-related illnesses.
