Twin Cities, MN – Minnesotans are waking up to a dangerously cold start to the day, but forecasters say a rapid warm-up is on the way this week.
According to the National Weather Service Twin Cities, wind chills between -20 and -30 degrees are impacting much of the state through late Monday morning, creating a risk of frostbite in as little as 30 minutes. The coldest wind chills were observed across central, southern, and western Minnesota, including the Twin Cities metro, where early commuters are feeling the bite.
The NWS urges residents to wear multiple layers, cover exposed skin, and limit time outdoors, especially children, pets, and those waiting at bus stops. Pets should be brought indoors, and anyone spending extended time outside should take frequent breaks to warm up.
Despite the frigid morning, conditions begin to improve quickly. High temperatures Monday are expected to reach the upper 20s, followed by a notable warm-up Tuesday and Wednesday. Forecast highs climb into the mid-30s Tuesday, with near-40-degree temperatures possible by Wednesday, bringing readings back above normal for mid-December.
Cloud cover increases midweek, and the next chance for precipitation arrives late Wednesday into Thursday, though details on rain or snow amounts remain uncertain at this time.
Forecasters emphasize that while the warming trend reduces extreme cold risks, melting snow combined with overnight refreezing could still create slick conditions at times.
Residents are encouraged to take cold precautions this morning, then prepare for rapidly changing conditions as the week progresses.
