Marquette, Michigan – Life-threatening cold is locking in across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where dangerously low wind chills are making frostbite a serious risk within minutes for anyone outdoors late Thursday night into Friday.
According to the National Weather Service, Extreme Cold Warnings are in effect across much of the UP, including Marquette, Houghton, Iron Mountain, Ironwood, Escanaba, and surrounding communities. Wind chills are expected to fall between 35 and 40 below zero, cold enough to cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as five to ten minutes.
The most severe conditions are expected across interior western and central portions of the UP, where Arctic air combines with steady winds to accelerate heat loss. In lakeshore communities, including Marquette and Munising, brief exposure without full winter protection could quickly become dangerous, especially during early morning hours.
Emergency managers urge residents to avoid unnecessary time outdoors, wear multiple layers including face masks and insulated gloves, and bring pets indoors. Pipes are at risk of freezing, and vehicle batteries may fail in the extreme cold. Officials also recommend checking on elderly neighbors and anyone without reliable heat.
Extreme Cold Warnings remain in effect through Friday afternoon, with additional cold watches posted into the weekend as bitter Arctic air lingers across the Upper Peninsula.
