Green Bay, WI – A surge of Arctic air is expected to bring dangerously cold conditions to the Green Bay area late this week, posing serious safety and travel risks.
According to the National Weather Service in Green Bay, an Extreme Cold Watch is in effect from midnight Friday through noon Saturday for all of Wisconsin. Forecasts call for wind chills between 30 and 45 degrees below zero, with some localized areas possibly experiencing wind chills near 50 below zero.
The coldest period is expected from Thursday night through Saturday morning, when prolonged exposure could lead to frostbite in minutes. The National Weather Service warned that even brief time outdoors may become dangerous without proper protection.
While snowfall is not the primary concern, the extreme cold may cause rapid refreezing of roadways, leading to slick conditions on bridges, overpasses, and untreated surfaces. Drivers on Interstate 41, U.S. Highway 41, and State Highway 29 should be alert for icy patches, especially during overnight and early morning travel.
The severe cold may also impact vehicles, with increased risk of dead batteries, fuel line issues, and mechanical failures. Emergency responders and utility crews may face challenges during the coldest hours.
Residents are urged to limit outdoor exposure, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and ensure pets are brought indoors. Commuters, students, and overnight workers should plan ahead for extreme cold conditions and continue monitoring forecast updates as timing and severity are refined.
