Upper Midwest – Prolonged bitter cold gripping the region will gradually ease early next week, with daytime temperatures returning to the mid-20s by Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service, dangerous wind chills as low as 25 to 40 degrees below zero will continue through the weekend, especially during overnight and early morning hours. Daytime highs Friday and Saturday are expected to remain in the single digits to teens, with occasional snow showers and lake-effect snow possible in northwest wind belts.
Forecasters report the coldest period will persist through Sunday night, when lows may fall below zero in several areas and wind chills again dip into the negative teens or lower. Light accumulating snow remains possible at times, particularly Saturday night into Sunday, though snowfall amounts are expected to vary by location.
A noticeable shift begins Monday as Arctic high pressure weakens and winds ease. While temperatures will remain below normal, highs are forecast to climb into the upper single digits and teens. By Tuesday, warmer air moving into the region is expected to push afternoon highs into the low to mid-20s, marking the most significant warm-up in more than a week.
Despite the improvement, the National Weather Service cautions that conditions will still be cold enough to pose risks for frostbite with prolonged exposure. Icy patches may also persist on untreated roads, especially during overnight refreezing.
The gradual warm-up is expected to benefit commuters, students, and outdoor workers after several days of hazardous cold, though winter conditions will remain firmly in place.
Residents are advised to continue monitoring official forecasts and limit time outdoors during extreme cold periods.
