Chicago, Illinois – A powerful Arctic air mass is tightening its grip on the Midwest, setting up a prolonged stretch of dangerous winter cold expected to last through the end of January and into early February. Temperatures are plunging across the region this weekend, with widespread subzero lows and limited daytime warming creating hazardous conditions from the Plains to the Great Lakes.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, the pattern from Jan. 27 through early February strongly favors much below normal temperatures across the Midwest. This Arctic outbreak is the core of a national cold surge, with parts of Minnesota facing extreme lows approaching negative 60 degrees, reinforcing the intensity and persistence of the cold across surrounding states.
Across the Midwest, the impacts are widespread. Snow and blowing snow remain ongoing concerns, particularly across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Iowa, while icy roads develop farther south during overnight hours. Travel could be hazardous along I-90, I-94, I-80, I-70, I-35, and secondary highways. Rapid temperature drops increase the risk of frost quakes, frozen pipes, vehicle failures, and strain on power and heating systems.
While brief moderation is possible at times, no sustained warm-up is expected before Feb. 2. Officials urge residents to limit outdoor exposure, avoid unnecessary travel during extreme cold, prepare homes and vehicles for prolonged freezing conditions, and stay alert as additional winter weather advisories and cold alerts may be issued across the Midwest.
