Wisconsin – A Cold Weather Advisory is in effect across large portions of northern, central, and eastern Wisconsin as a surge of Arctic air brings dangerously low wind chills through the weekend, prompting officials to warn residents about frostbite and hypothermia risks.
According to the National Weather Service in Green Bay, wind chills could drop to between 30 and 35 degrees below zero, especially during overnight and early morning hours from late Friday night through Sunday morning.
Cold Weather Advisory Timeline and Coverage
The first advisory begins at midnight Friday night and continues until 10 a.m. CST Saturday for parts of northeast and north-central Wisconsin. Counties included in this initial advisory are Vilas, Oneida, Florence, Forest, Marinette, and Oconto.
A broader Cold Weather Advisory is scheduled to remain in effect from midnight Friday night through 10 a.m. CST Sunday for much of central, east-central, and additional north-central Wisconsin. This expanded advisory covers Brown, Outagamie, Winnebago, Marathon, Shawano, Wood, Portage, Waupaca, Manitowoc, Kewaunee, Calumet, Langlade, Lincoln, and Menominee counties.
Cities expected to feel the worst of the cold include Green Bay, Appleton, Oshkosh, Wausau, Stevens Point, Wisconsin Rapids, Antigo, Rhinelander, Manitowoc, and Two Rivers.
Why the Cold Is Especially Dangerous
Meteorologists say the combination of bitterly cold air temperatures and gusty winds will create life-threatening conditions, particularly during nighttime and early morning periods when wind chills are at their lowest.
Forecasters warn that exposed skin can develop frostbite in as little as 10 minutes in the coldest areas. Prolonged exposure may also lead to hypothermia, especially for individuals without proper winter clothing or shelter.
Cold-related illnesses often occur faster than people expect, particularly when wind removes body heat more quickly than calm conditions.
Who Faces the Highest Risk
Certain groups are especially vulnerable during extreme cold events. Officials are urging extra caution for outdoor workers, students waiting for buses, older adults, and individuals without reliable heating.
People experiencing homelessness are also at high risk, and local agencies may increase warming center availability during the advisory period.
Children and seniors can lose body heat more rapidly, making it critical for caregivers to ensure they are properly dressed and kept indoors whenever possible.
Travel and Vehicle Safety Concerns
Travelers are advised to prepare for the possibility of vehicle breakdowns in extreme cold, which can quickly become life-threatening. Drivers should ensure vehicles are winter-ready, including fully charged batteries, proper antifreeze levels, and sufficient fuel.
Emergency kits should include blankets, extra clothing, food, water, and a fully charged phone. Officials stress that even short periods stranded in subzero wind chills can be dangerous without adequate protection.
Guidance for Pet Owners
Pet owners are urged to bring animals indoors during the coldest periods. Dogs and cats are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia, especially on paws, ears, and tails.
If pets must go outside briefly, exposure time should be limited, and signs of cold stress should be monitored closely.
What to Expect After the Weekend
Forecasters say temperatures are expected to slowly moderate after Sunday morning, but conditions will remain seasonably cold. Additional cold weather advisories or warnings could be issued if Arctic air lingers or returns next week.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated through official weather alerts and local forecasts as conditions evolve.
Staying Safe During Extreme Cold
Officials recommend limiting outdoor exposure, dressing in multiple warm layers, and ensuring hands, face, and head are fully covered. Staying dry and avoiding unnecessary travel during the coldest hours can significantly reduce health risks.
If you or someone you know experiences symptoms of frostbite or hypothermia, seek medical attention immediately.
Share how you are preparing for this extreme cold or any weather impacts you are experiencing in the comments below.
