Residents in Minneapolis and the surrounding regions are facing extreme cold conditions heading into the week. According to the National Weather Service, temperatures are predicted to reach highs of merely -3 degrees today with wind chill values plunging as low as -30 degrees. The weather outlook warns of dangerously cold wind chills between -25 and -35 degrees today and tonight.
The frigid weather extends its unwelcome stay with a low around -13 degrees tonight, and the situation appears particularly dire on M.L.King Day. With an expected high of -5 degrees and wind chill values dropping to near -31, residents are being urged to prepare for these bitterly cold conditions. The National Weather Service's Hazardous Weather Outlook states, "Dangerously cold wind chill values of between 25 below zero and 35 degrees below zero are expected."
Looking ahead to Tuesday, there is slight respite as temperatures are forecasted to rise to a high near 6 degrees. However, the reprieve is short-lived with increasing clouds leading into Wednesday when snow chances emerge alongside slightly warmer highs near 25 degrees. Residents should remain vigilant as there is a 20 percent chance of snow after noon on Wednesday, exacerbated by temperatures that are forecasted to remain mostly consistent through to the weekend.
Weekend weather doesn't offer much in the way of relief, with partly sunny skies expected and highs nearing 28 degrees by Saturday. The sustained period of dangerous cold has prompted a Cold Weather Advisory that remains in effect until noon CST Tuesday. "The cold wind chills as low as 35 below zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes," the advisory detailed, cautioning residents against prolonged exposure, which could lead to hypothermia.
Landlords and housing advocates in the city are especially encouraged to check in on tenants and those vulnerable to these severe temperatures. With many of the city's residents facing cold weather that can affect every aspect of daily life, from plumbing to the simplest walk outside, it's imperative for communities to stay informed and to look after one another. A statement from the National Weather Service concluded, "Dress in layers including a hat, face mask, and gloves if you must go outside," emphasizing the need to take precautions against the harsh winter blast.
