Green Bay, WI – Dangerous cold is returning to Wisconsin tonight as Arctic air sweeps in behind a strong cold front, sending temperatures and wind chills to life-threatening levels across much of the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Green Bay, wind chills are expected to plummet to between -20°F and -25°F by early Thursday morning, particularly across central and north-central Wisconsin, including Wausau, Rhinelander, and Merrill. The bitter cold will persist through Thursday with daytime highs only reaching single digits to the upper teens, offering little relief from the deep freeze.
Forecasters warn that exposure to these temperatures could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 20 minutes, and residents should take precautions to limit outdoor time. Those venturing outside are advised to dress in layers, cover all exposed skin, and check on neighbors and the elderly.
Pipes and plumbing are also at risk of freezing or bursting as overnight lows fall well below zero. Residents are encouraged to keep a slow trickle of water running in faucets and open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
The cold front will push across the state late Wednesday evening, with the coldest air arriving overnight. Areas along the Lake Michigan shoreline, including Green Bay and Manitowoc, may remain slightly warmer but will still experience wind chills below -10°F.
Record low temperatures could be challenged at several locations Thursday morning before gradual warming returns this weekend. Highs are expected to rebound into the 20s and 30s by Saturday, though below-average temperatures will continue.
