Residents across Wisconsin are preparing for a severe winter weather event as meteorologists warn of life-threatening cold conditions approaching the region. The National Weather Service has officially issued an extreme cold watch that will take effect Thursday evening, January 22, and persist through Saturday morning, January 24, bringing some of the most dangerous temperatures seen this winter season.
According to Denny VanCleave, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan, the designation of an extreme cold watch indicates that either actual temperatures or wind chill values are expected to drop to minus 30 degrees Fahrenheit or colder. This threshold triggers serious concerns for public safety and requires immediate preparedness actions from all residents.
The forecast for southern Wisconsin shows particularly brutal conditions developing Thursday night and continuing into Friday morning. Wind chill temperatures are projected to fall between 30 and 40 degrees below zero during this initial period. The extreme cold will persist through Friday afternoon and into Saturday morning, with wind chills remaining in the 25 to 35 below zero range. These prolonged periods of intensely cold air create significant risks for anyone exposed to the elements.
Health officials and meteorologists alike emphasize the serious dangers associated with such extreme cold. The National Weather Service warns that under these conditions, exposed skin can develop frostbite in as little as ten minutes. This rapid onset of cold-related injury means that even brief periods outdoors without proper protection could result in permanent tissue damage. Frostbite occurs when skin and underlying tissues freeze, typically affecting extremities such as fingers, toes, ears, and the nose first.
Beyond frostbite, the risk of hypothermia rises dramatically during extended exposure to sub-zero temperatures. Hypothermia develops when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing core body temperature to drop to dangerous levels. Symptoms include shivering, confusion, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness. In severe cases, hypothermia can be fatal if not treated promptly.
VanCleave stresses several critical safety measures for residents during this dangerous cold snap. "Limit time outside, dress in layers. Obviously, you want to have any exposed skin covered up well," he advises. The layering technique is essential because it traps warm air between clothing items, providing better insulation than a single heavy garment. A base layer that wicks moisture away from the skin, a middle insulating layer, and a windproof outer layer create the most effective protection against extreme cold.
Protecting vulnerable populations becomes a community priority during such weather events. VanCleave reminds residents to check in on pets as well as family members and neighbors, particularly the elderly or those with limited mobility. Pets should be kept indoors as much as possible, and outdoor animals need adequate shelter with proper insulation and unfrozen water sources.
For individuals experiencing homelessness or those without adequate heating, the danger is especially acute. The Milwaukee Coalition on Housing and Homelessness operates six warming shelters across the city, providing safe refuge from the deadly cold. These facilities offer not only warmth but often additional resources such as hot meals and connections to social services. Up-to-date information about shelter locations, hours, and availability can be found online at milwaukeecoc.com.
Residents in need of immediate assistance can access emergency resources by calling IMPACT 211 at 414-773-0211. This helpline connects individuals with critical social services, including immediate shelter arrangements, emergency heating assistance, and other cold weather resources. The city of Milwaukee also maintains a comprehensive cold weather safety information page at city.milwaukee.gov/Health/Information/coldweathersafety, which includes links to additional community resources and safety tips.
The extreme cold event coincides with several rounds of snowfall, though accumulation is expected to remain relatively light. Between 6 p.m. on January 20 and 6 a.m. on January 21, the Milwaukee area received approximately 1.5 inches of snow. A second wave of precipitation is forecast to arrive during the afternoon and evening of January 21, potentially adding another inch of fresh snow to the ground.
As the cold front moves through on Thursday, January 22, scattered snow showers may develop, but meteorologists expect minimal additional accumulation of no more than a half inch. While the snow amounts themselves are not substantial, the combination of existing snow cover and extreme winds creates hazardous travel conditions.
VanCleave specifically warns about the impact of high wind gusts on road conditions. Winds are expected to intensify by mid-to-late evening on January 21, with gusts reaching 35 mph and continuing through the night. These powerful winds will cause significant blowing and drifting snow, dramatically reducing visibility for drivers and creating dangerous patches of re-accumulated snow on roadways.
The orientation of roads plays a crucial role in how severely they are affected. North-south oriented roads are particularly susceptible to snow drifts reforming across cleared surfaces, as the prevailing winds can easily redistribute loose snow across these pathways. Drivers should exercise extreme caution, reduce speeds, and maintain greater following distances to account for sudden changes in visibility and road surface conditions.
Transportation departments are working to keep major highways and thoroughfares clear, but the persistent winds make their efforts challenging. Salt and other de-icing materials become less effective at extremely low temperatures, meaning ice could remain a problem even on treated roads. Motorists should ensure their vehicles are winter-ready, with adequate antifreeze, properly inflated tires, and emergency supplies including blankets, food, water, and a charged cell phone.
The timing of this extreme weather event presents additional concerns for commuters. The coldest conditions are expected during overnight and early morning hours when fewer people are traveling, but those who must be on the roads for work or emergencies face heightened risks. Employers should consider flexible scheduling or remote work options when possible to protect employees from dangerous travel conditions.
School districts across the region are monitoring the forecast closely, as wind chill values below -25°F often trigger automatic closures or delays to protect students waiting at bus stops. Parents should watch for announcements from their local districts and have contingency plans for childcare if classes are canceled.
Beyond immediate safety concerns, prolonged extreme cold can impact infrastructure. Water pipes in poorly insulated areas may freeze and burst, causing significant property damage. Residents should allow faucets to drip slightly and ensure pipes in basements, attics, and exterior walls are properly insulated. Heating systems will be working overtime, increasing the risk of failures and the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning from improperly vented equipment or alternative heating sources.
Utility companies are preparing for increased demand on the electrical grid and natural gas systems. While major outages are not anticipated, the strain on equipment during prolonged extreme cold can sometimes lead to localized issues. Residents should have backup plans and emergency supplies ready, including flashlights, batteries, and alternative heating methods that are safe for indoor use.
Community organizations are mobilizing to support vulnerable populations during this crisis. In addition to the official warming shelters, many churches, community centers, and nonprofit organizations are opening their doors to provide warmth and assistance. Volunteers are needed to staff these facilities and transport those who cannot travel on their own.
The economic impact of such extreme weather extends beyond immediate emergency response costs. Businesses may see reduced customer traffic, supply chain disruptions, and increased heating expenses. Workers in outdoor occupations such as construction, agriculture, and transportation face difficult decisions about whether to work in dangerous conditions or lose income.
As Wisconsin residents prepare for this dangerous cold snap, the key messages from emergency officials remain consistent: stay indoors when possible, dress appropriately if you must go outside, check on vulnerable neighbors and pets, and know where to find help if you need it. The combination of extreme cold, wind, and snow creates a potentially deadly situation, but with proper preparation and community support, residents can weather the storm safely.
The extreme cold watch serves as a critical reminder of winter's power and the importance of heeding official warnings. By taking proactive steps now—preparing emergency kits, identifying warming shelter locations, and planning for potential power outages or travel disruptions—Wisconsin residents can protect themselves, their families, and their neighbors from the worst impacts of this severe weather event.