Dangerous wind chills likely Sunday night through Tuesday morning

Temperatures this morning dropped well below zero under clear skies, light winds and a fresh snow pack.  While wind chills in a few spots got as cold as -25 degrees this morning, it could have been a lot worse had we had a breeze.  Temperatures are expected to get just as cold Sunday night through Wednesday morning, but there will be a fairly strong wind from the northwest to go with the subzero temperatures.  That combination will make for dangerous, if not deadly, wind chills!

The temperature is expected to drop below 0 degrees Sunday afternoon and will remain below zero through Wednesday morning.  Sunday night through Monday morning looks to potentially be the coldest with wind chill readings as low as -50 degrees in some locations!  This is extremely dangerous cold for anyone or anything outside.  Frostbite can happen within a matter of minutes!  If you have to venture out during this time, it's important to keep all exposed skin covered: hats, scarf, gloves, layered clothing, etc.  Monday afternoon won't be any better as the core of the cold will be centered just to our north.  Wind chills Monday afternoon will likely be in the -35 to -40 degree range with Northwest winds 20 to 25 mph.  Monday night/Tuesday morning is expected to be just as cold with wind chills between -35 to -40 degrees.  A decrease in the wind is expected Tuesday afternoon as a ridge of high pressure moves overhead which will ease the wind chills a bit.

Wind Chill Warnings have already been issued for Southern Wisconsin beginning Sunday night and I anticipate additional warnings to come out for the remainder of the area either later today or Saturday for Sunday night.  Wind Chill Advisories will likely be issued once again for Saturday night.

As the temperatures drop many will try to find additional ways to keep warm.  A fireplace is okay, but make sure you've had it inspected if you haven't used it and be sure it's properly vented to the outside.  Never use generators, grills, camp stoves, or other similar devices indoors.  These not only can lead to fires, but they can also cause carbon monoxide poisoning!  If you must use a space heater, DO NOT place it within 3 feet of anything that may catch on fire, such as drapes, furniture or bedding and NEVER cover your space heater.  Don't leave children unattended by the space heater and never place it on furniture or near water.  If your space heater has a damaged electrical cord or produces sparks, don't use it.  And please, make sure you don't leave it unattended!  The cold isn't going to last as temperatures are expected to rise towards the end of the week.  It's been a long time...over 10 years...since we've experienced this kind of cold.  We'll get through it, but just remember to be safe!  Also, frostbite can happen to animals as well.  Keep them protected and bring them indoors if you can!