Short Description: Dangerously cold wind chills as low as -30° grip the region, with First Alert Days declared. Learn the hour-by-hour forecast and when a slight warm-up arrives.
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Main Article: Bitter Cold Persists in Rochester, Wind Chills Plummet to -30°
The Rochester area is enduring a prolonged and dangerous bout of sub-zero temperatures, with wind chills creating life-threatening conditions. This morning, wind chills ranged from -25° to -30°, marking another bitterly cold day following Friday’s extreme lows. The hour-by-hour forecast shows air temperatures will remain below zero throughout Saturday, with wind chills not expected to climb above -10°. Residents are urged to limit time outdoors, as frostbite can occur on exposed skin in under 30 minutes under these extreme conditions. For Sunday, a slight improvement in air temperatures is anticipated, possibly rising above zero, but dangerous wind chills will persist below zero all day, posing a continued risk.
The most severe period is expected late Sunday night into Monday morning, when wind chill values are forecast to plunge back down to -30°. Due to these hazardous conditions, First Alert Days remain in effect for both Sunday and Monday, signaling a significant threat to life and property. A gradual moderation begins mid-week. Tuesday and Wednesday will see a slow climb in both air temperatures and wind chills, though conditions will remain well below average. By later next week, the 10-day forecast indicates air temperatures may finally reach the double digits, offering a reprieve from the deep freeze, but wind chills are likely to stay below zero until next weekend, extending the period of heightened caution.
Short Summary: Southeastern Minnesota is locked in a severe cold snap with wind chills plummeting to -30°, prompting First Alert Days. While a slow warming trend is expected later next week, dangerous sub-zero wind chills will persist, requiring continued vigilance. Always check the hour-by-hour forecast before venturing out, dress in layers, and know the signs of frostbite during these extreme conditions. Stay informed and stay safe.
