Minneapolis–St. Paul, Minnesota – Minnesota wakes up locked in deep winter as sharp winds cut across open roads and frozen sidewalks creak underfoot. The air feels brittle, and even brief exposure stings exposed skin.
Early-morning temperatures hover near 6 degrees, but wind chills have plunged to around 20 below zero across the Twin Cities. According to the National Weather Service, northwest winds gusting over 30 mph are driving the dangerous cold, especially before midday. Frostbite can develop quickly without gloves, hats, and face protection.
Road conditions remain mostly dry, but slick spots can form where light snow or blowing powder settles. Drivers should slow down on bridges, ramps, and east-west roadways exposed to wind. Visibility may briefly drop as gusts sweep loose snow across lanes.
The cold dominates the state today. Afternoon highs struggle to reach 8 degrees, and wind chills remain well below zero. Outdoor work and school activities should be limited, and frequent warm-up breaks are advised. Pets should stay indoors, and vehicles may have trouble starting without block heaters.
Little relief arrives midweek. Wednesday stays sunny but cold, with highs near 8 degrees again and lows dropping below zero at night. By Thursday, temperatures remain below normal, topping out near 6 degrees, though winds ease slightly.
A gradual change begins late week. Friday brings more sunshine and a modest rebound, with highs near 9 degrees. Over the weekend, warmer air pushes in, lifting highs into the 20s by Sunday. Melting during the day followed by refreezing at night could create slick pavement, a classic setup for flash freezing.
Longer-range outlooks suggest temperatures trend closer to seasonal norms into early February, though winter is far from over.
Bundle up, limit time outdoors, and plan extra travel time. How cold did it feel in your neighborhood this morning?
Five-Day Outlook for Minneapolis–St. Paul, MN
- Today: Mostly sunny, very cold, high near 8
- Wednesday: Sunny, bitter, high near 8
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 6
- Friday: Sunny, slowly moderating, high near 9
- Saturday: Increasing clouds, warmer, high near 17
