The first Arctic outbreak of the season is set to plunge northeast Wisconsin into a stretch of dangerous cold beginning Wednesday night and lasting through the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Green Bay, an Arctic cold front will sweep across the region Wednesday night, sending temperatures tumbling into the single digits and wind chills between 10°F and 20°F below zero by early Thursday morning.
This blast of cold air will mark the coldest stretch of the season so far, with a few record low temperatures possible on Thursday. Daytime highs on Thursday may struggle to rise above the teens, and winds will make it feel much colder.
A brief round of light snow is also possible late Wednesday into early Thursday, with minor accumulations generally less than one inch. Though snowfall will be limited, any light snow combined with rapidly falling temperatures could lead to slick roads and hazardous travel, especially overnight.
Another reinforcing cold front will arrive Friday, keeping temperatures well below normal into the weekend. Lows will remain in the single digits across much of central and northern Wisconsin, while wind chills could again dip to below zero.
Residents are urged to prepare for extreme cold, especially those spending time outdoors. The NWS advises dressing in multiple layers, wearing hats and gloves, and limiting time outside to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
This extended cold snap signals the arrival of true winter conditions for Wisconsin, with temperatures not expected to significantly recover until early next week.
