Minneapolis, Minnesota – Minnesota is entrenched in a prolonged and dangerous stretch of Arctic cold that will dominate the state from late January into early February, with little indication of meaningful relief before Valentine’s Day. From the streets of downtown Minneapolis to the Iron Range and the Red River Valley, winter’s harshest conditions are expected to remain firmly in place, posing serious risks to health, travel, and infrastructure.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, temperature outlooks from January 23 through February 13 strongly favor well below-normal temperatures across the Upper Midwest. Multiple outlook periods continue to show Arctic air repeatedly reinforcing itself over Minnesota, keeping extreme cold locked in as February begins.
In Minneapolis and St. Paul, daytime highs may struggle to climb above the single digits or teens during the coldest stretches, while overnight lows frequently fall below zero. Wind chills along the Mississippi River, I-94 corridor, and exposed urban areas may plunge to dangerous levels, capable of causing frostbite in minutes. St. Cloud, Mankato, and southern Minnesota communities face similar conditions, with repeated hard-freeze nights stressing homes, vehicles, and utilities.
Northern Minnesota will see the most severe impacts. In Duluth, Hibbing, International Falls, and along the North Shore of Lake Superior, temperatures may remain below zero for extended periods, with wind chills reaching extreme levels along Highway 61 and open rural roads. Snowpack and persistent Arctic air will severely limit daytime warming.
The prolonged cold creates life-threatening risks from frostbite and hypothermia, especially for anyone spending time outdoors. Residents are urged to limit exposure, dress in insulated layers, bring pets indoors, protect exposed plumbing, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Drivers should carry winter emergency kits, particularly when traveling rural highways or overnight.
While brief moderation is possible at times, long-range signals suggest Minnesota’s Arctic cold may not ease in a meaningful way until after Valentine’s Day. Additional cold weather advisories or warnings remain likely as this extreme winter pattern continues.
