Duluth, Minnesota – Life-threatening cold continues across northern Minnesota this morning as brutal wind chills plunge as low as 40 to 60 degrees below zero, creating extremely dangerous conditions for anyone exposed outdoors.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, the coldest wind chills are expected through this morning as breezy northwest winds combine with dangerously low temperatures. Widespread Extreme Cold Warnings remain in effect through noon Saturday, with wind chills of 30 to 45 below zero expected to persist into Saturday morning even as winds gradually weaken.
Communities across the Northland, including Duluth, Hibbing, Ely, International Falls, Two Harbors, and the Iron Range, are experiencing some of the coldest wind chills of the season so far. Frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as five to ten minutes under these conditions. Even brief outdoor exposure can quickly become life-threatening without proper protection.
While winds are forecast to ease heading into the weekend, the bitterly cold air mass will remain firmly in place. Actual air temperatures will stay well below zero, meaning dangerous cold will continue even without strong winds. Vehicles may struggle to start, and the risk of frozen pipes remains elevated.
Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, limit time outdoors, dress in multiple layers including face coverings and gloves, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Pets should be brought indoors, and emergency kits should be kept readily available.
Extreme Cold Warnings remain in effect into Saturday, and officials caution that hazardous cold conditions will linger beyond that time, even as wind chills slowly improve later in the weekend.
