La Crosse, Wisconsin – A surge of Arctic air is set to bring dangerously cold conditions to western Wisconsin, southeast Minnesota, and parts of northeast Iowa beginning late Thursday, raising serious concerns for frostbite and outdoor safety through Saturday morning. Wind chills are expected to fall sharply, creating life-threatening conditions during overnight and early morning hours.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, an Extreme Cold Watch is in effect from Thursday evening through Saturday morning for much of western and central Wisconsin and southeast Minnesota. A separate watch begins late Thursday night for northeast Iowa. Wind chills could drop as low as 35 to 40 below zero, levels that can cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.
Communities including La Crosse, Winona, Rochester, Sparta, Black River Falls, Prairie du Chien, Decorah, and Wabasha are expected to experience the worst of the cold. Gusty winds will compound the danger, particularly in open areas and along highways such as I-90, U.S. 14, and Highway 53, where exposure risks increase quickly.
Residents are urged to limit time outdoors, dress in multiple layers, and cover all exposed skin with hats, gloves, and face protection. Pets should be kept indoors, and extra care should be taken to check on elderly neighbors and those without reliable heat.
The Extreme Cold Watch may be upgraded as confidence increases. Bitter cold is expected to persist into Saturday morning, and additional advisories or warnings are likely as the Arctic air settles across the region.
