Minnesota is preparing for an Arctic chill that will bring some of the coldest temperatures of the season. With an Extreme Cold Warning in effect starting this evening, residents are being urged to take precautions against life-threatening conditions.

Minneapolis
In Minneapolis, today’s high will barely reach 10°F (-12°C) before dropping to a frigid -10°F (-23°C) tonight. Sunday will bring even colder weather, with a high of just -1°F (-18°C) and a low of -10°F (-24°C). Monday will be the coldest day yet, with temperatures hovering between -8°F (-22°C) and -15°F (-26°C). Combined with strong winds, the wind chill could drop to -44°F (-42°C), making it dangerous to be outside for even a few minutes.
Duluth
In Duluth, temperatures will be similarly brutal. Today’s high is 6°F (-14°C), with a low tonight of -15°F (-26°C). Sunday will bring a high of -4°F (-20°C) and a low of -17°F (-27°C). By Monday, temperatures will drop to -7°F (-22°C) during the day and -19°F (-29°C) at night. Wind chills could plummet to -45°F (-43°C), making frostbite possible in under 10 minutes for exposed skin.
Rochester
Rochester isn’t escaping the cold, either. Today’s high will reach 10°F (-12°C), followed by a nighttime low of -10°F (-24°C). Sunday will see a high of -1°F (-18°C) and a low of -8°F (-22°C). Monday’s forecast includes a high of -4°F (-20°C) and a low of -14°F (-26°C), with wind chills making it feel much colder.
How to Stay Safe During This Arctic Blast
When temperatures and wind chills drop this low, safety should be your top priority. Here are some key tips:
- Dress for the Cold: Wear layers of warm clothing, including insulated jackets, gloves, hats, scarves, and face masks to protect exposed skin.
- Limit Outdoor Time: Frostbite can occur within minutes in these conditions. If you must go outside, take frequent breaks to warm up indoors.
- Prepare Your Home: Insulate water pipes to prevent freezing, and keep your home warm by sealing drafts and using heaters safely.
- Check on Others: Reach out to elderly family members, neighbors, or anyone who may need extra help staying warm.
- Use Caution with Heaters: Keep portable heaters on flat, stable surfaces and away from flammable materials. Never use grills or generators indoors due to carbon monoxide risks.
What to Expect
This Arctic front is part of a polar vortex sweeping across much of the U.S., bringing bitter cold to Minnesota and surrounding states. The Extreme Cold Warning is in effect from 6:00 PM CST Saturday to noon CST Tuesday, and wind chills are expected to make temperatures feel as low as -45°F (-43°C).
Minnesotans are used to winter, but this level of cold is dangerous even for the toughest among us. Stay indoors as much as possible, dress warmly, and check in on loved ones. By midweek, temperatures will start to climb slightly, but until then, staying safe and prepared is key.