Duluth, Minnesota – Bitter Arctic cold continues to dominate the Northland on Saturday, putting northeast Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin under dangerous conditions as wind chills plunge to levels capable of causing frostbite in minutes.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, an Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect until noon CST Saturday for the entire region, with wind chills dropping as low as 45 below zero. A Cold Weather Advisory is set to return from Saturday evening through noon Sunday as very cold wind chills near 35 below redevelop overnight.
The extreme cold is affecting a wide area, including Duluth, International Falls, Ely, Hibbing, Grand Rapids, Two Harbors, Brainerd, and Pine City in Minnesota, along with Superior, Ashland, Hayward, Spooner, and Hurley in Wisconsin. Officials warn that exposed skin can develop frostbite in as little as 10 minutes, while prolonged exposure increases the risk of hypothermia. Travel disruptions are possible if vehicles fail in the extreme cold, especially in rural areas.
Emergency managers urge residents to avoid unnecessary outdoor activity, dress in multiple layers, and fully cover exposed skin. Pets should remain indoors, and residents are encouraged to check on older family members, neighbors, and anyone without reliable heat. Fire officials stress safe use of space heaters and warn against running generators or grills indoors.
While wind chills may briefly improve this afternoon, another round of dangerous cold is expected tonight. Officials say additional alerts may follow if Arctic air remains locked over the region into Sunday.
