Arctic Blast Brings Record-Breaking Cold to Midwest and Plains

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – An arctic air mass is sweeping across the United States, bringing some of the coldest temperatures of the season to the Midwest and Plains. Record lows are expected in many areas, with temperatures plummeting up to 30 degrees below average. Wind chills could make it feel as cold as -30 degrees in some regions.

FOX 9 meteorologist Jared Piepenburg reported that the frigid conditions will persist through Tuesday, with temperatures struggling to rise above zero. “The theme of our Sunday and Monday forecast is frigid,” Piepenburg said. “Temperatures will feel like they are in the -20s to -30s for a large chunk of the state and surrounding area.”

The cold snap is driven by a northwest wind gusting between 15 to 20 mph, intensifying the biting chill. The extreme conditions are expected to ease slightly by midweek, with temperatures climbing into the lower 20s by Wednesday. However, the shift from subzero temperatures to milder weather will be stark and noticeable.

Residents are advised to limit outdoor exposure and take precautions against frostbite and hypothermia. The National Weather Service has issued wind chill advisories and warnings for much of the region, urging people to dress in layers and avoid prolonged time outside.

This arctic blast is part of a larger pattern of extreme winter weather affecting the U.S. this season. While the Midwest and Plains bear the brunt of the cold, other regions are also experiencing unusual weather patterns, including heavy snowfall and ice storms.

Looking ahead, the forecast shows a gradual return to more seasonable temperatures by the end of the week, with little to no precipitation expected. However, the lingering effects of the cold snap will likely impact travel, agriculture, and energy consumption across the affected areas.