DULUTH, MN – A surge of arctic air will grip northern Minnesota this weekend, sending wind chills plummeting to between -25°F and -35°F from Friday night through Saturday morning, according to the National Weather Service in Duluth.
Forecasters warn that the coldest readings are expected in Walker, International Falls, Ely, and Grand Rapids, where temperatures combined with strong winds will create life-threatening conditions for anyone exposed outdoors.
“Frostbite can occur in under 10 minutes on exposed skin,” the weather service cautioned, urging residents to limit outdoor activity, cover all exposed skin, and bring pets and livestock indoors.
Wind chills will remain well below zero through the weekend, with only a slight moderation expected by Monday. The extreme cold will follow a week of milder temperatures, marking one of the coldest outbreaks of the season so far.
Travelers should prepare for hazardous conditions, as even brief exposure can be dangerous. Officials recommend checking on vulnerable neighbors and ensuring home heating systems are functioning properly.
