Minnesota – Air burns the lungs this morning, sharp and unforgiving, as wind cuts across frozen pavement. Breath crystallizes instantly. This is not just cold — it’s the kind that punishes mistakes within minutes.
An Extreme Cold Warning is in effect through Friday morning across the Twin Cities and much of central and southern Minnesota, followed by an Extreme Cold Watch lasting into Saturday. According to the National Weather Service, wind chills as low as 45 degrees below zero are possible, creating a serious risk of frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.
Light flurries may brush parts of the metro early, but snow is not the main concern. Temperatures plunge hard through the day, and winds stay just strong enough to drive the cold straight through layers. Sidewalks, parking lots, and untreated roads remain icy as nothing thaws.
By Friday morning, the cold peaks. Actual air temperatures hover near 7 below, with wind chills falling into the minus 30s and 40s. Commuters waiting for buses, students walking to class, and anyone stranded outdoors face dangerous exposure quickly.
Saturday offers little relief. Highs struggle near 1 below, and wind chills remain brutal. Any brief calm still feels hostile. Pets, livestock, and vulnerable neighbors need protection, and outdoor plans should be delayed.
Sunday trends slightly better, with sunshine returning and highs near 4 degrees, but cold remains locked in. Looking ahead, national outlooks suggest below-normal temperatures persist into early next week, even as precipitation chances rise farther south.
This is the type of cold that shuts down daily routines. Limit time outside, cover all exposed skin, and keep emergency kits stocked. Vehicles should be fueled and charged. If your heat fails, seek shelter immediately.
Five-Day Outlook for Minneapolis–St. Paul, Minnesota
- Today: Slight flurries early, falling temps, high near 8°
- Friday: Sunny but brutal cold, high near -7°
- Saturday: Partly sunny, extreme cold, high near -1°
- Sunday: Cold with sun, high near 4°
- Monday: Mostly sunny, cold, high near 11°
