If you live in Duluth, Minnesota, get ready for an ice-cold Valentine’s Day weekend. A blast of Arctic air will bring dangerously low temperatures, snow, and bitter wind chills, making it one of the coldest weekends of the season. If you were hoping for a romantic evening out, you might want to rethink your plans and stay warm inside instead.
Here’s what to expect over the next five days. Spoiler alert—it’s going to be rough.
Thursday, February 13: Arctic Sunshine
Even though the sun will be out, it won’t do much to warm things up. High temperatures will barely reach 7 degrees, and by nighttime, temperatures will plummet to 11 below zero. If you have to be outside for any reason, bundle up in layers because frostbite can set in quickly in this kind of cold.
Friday, February 14: A Cold and Snowy Valentine’s Day
Friday will be a little warmer, with highs reaching 18 degrees, but clouds will move in and bring light snow by the afternoon. While only one to three centimeters of snow is expected, roads could become slick, especially in the evening. If you have dinner plans, make sure to drive carefully and give yourself extra time to get where you’re going.
Saturday, February 15: Cold and Gloomy
Saturday will start off with a little sunshine, but don’t expect it to last. Clouds will take over as the day goes on, and temperatures will drop back down to four below zero at night. With icy roads and a bitter wind chill, it’s a good day to stay indoors if you can.
Sunday, February 16: The Deep Freeze Sets In
Temperatures will struggle to get above six degrees, and by nightfall, they’ll drop to sixteen below zero. Wind chills will make it feel even colder, making outdoor activities risky. If you have to go outside, limit your time in the cold and dress in multiple layers to stay warm.
Monday, February 17: The Coldest Day Yet
Just when you thought it couldn’t get any colder, Monday’s high will barely hit one degree. Overnight lows will stay well below zero, and even though the sun will be out, it won’t make much of a difference. This is the kind of cold that demands serious winter gear, including heavy coats, thermal socks, insulated gloves, and face coverings.
How to Stay Safe in the Extreme Cold
- Limit your time outside as much as possible. Frostbite can happen in under 30 minutes in temperatures this cold.
- Wear multiple layers, including a thick winter coat, gloves, a hat, and warm socks. Keeping skin covered is essential.
- Check on elderly neighbors and keep pets indoors. This level of cold is dangerous for everyone.
- Be extra cautious on the roads, especially Friday night into Saturday when snow and ice could create slick conditions.
- Make sure you have an emergency kit at home, including extra blankets, flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food in case of a power outage.
This Valentine’s Day weekend is shaping up to be one of the coldest of the season. With temperatures dropping well below zero, strong wind chills, and snow in the forecast, it’s best to stay indoors as much as possible. If you do have to go out, dress warmly and take extra precautions.
