Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Life-threatening cold is bearing down across Wisconsin, with dangerously low wind chills making frostbite a serious risk in just minutes for anyone exposed outdoors late Thursday night into Friday.
According to the National Weather Service, Extreme Cold Warnings are in effect across much of the state, including Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Wausau, Eau Claire, and surrounding communities. Wind chills are expected to drop between 35 and 45 below zero overnight, cold enough to cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as five to ten minutes.
Northern and central Wisconsin will see the most severe conditions, where wind chills near 45 below are likely by early Friday morning. In eastern Wisconsin, including the Milwaukee metro area, wind chills between 30 and 40 below will still pose an immediate danger, especially for commuters, students, and outdoor workers. Snow cover and light winds will allow the Arctic air to fully take hold, increasing the risk of rapid heat loss.
Residents are urged to avoid non-essential outdoor activity, dress in multiple layers with face masks and insulated gloves, and bring pets indoors. Pipes are vulnerable to freezing, and emergency managers recommend letting faucets drip slowly and checking on elderly neighbors.
Extreme Cold Warnings remain in effect through Friday morning, with additional cold watches posted for Friday night into Saturday as the Arctic air mass lingers across Wisconsin.
