A severe cold snap is gripping Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, with wind chill temperatures plummeting to 40 degrees below zero and potentially life-threatening conditions expected.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an Extreme Cold Warning for the western section of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where wind chill temperatures have already plummeted to 40 degrees below zero.
Dangerously Cold Temperatures Expected
In addition to the Extreme Cold Warning, nearly all of Michigan is under a Cold Weather Advisory due to extremely cold air moving into the state. Daytime highs in the Lower Peninsula and eastern Upper Peninsula are expected to be in the single digits on Monday and Tuesday, with wind chills dropping as low as 25 below zero.
Frostbite and Hypothermia Risks
This is a serious concern for both people and pets, as frostbite can occur in just 30 minutes when skin is exposed to air this cold. The NWS warns that “frostbite and hypothermia will occur if unprotected skin is exposed to these temperatures” and encourages homeowners and property managers to take action now.
Record-Breaking Wind Chill
Iron Mountain, on the west end of the Upper Peninsula, already reported a wind chill of 40 below zero early this morning. By Tuesday, wind chills are forecasted to drop as low as -45 degrees.
Safety Precautions
The NWS advises homeowners and property managers to ensure their Winter Car Survival Kit is up-to-date and to limit time outdoors for both people and pets. They also recommend checking on vulnerable neighbors and taking action now to prevent ruptured water pipes from freezing temperatures.
Travel Disruptions
Michigan State Police have shut down M-28 in both directions between Marquette and Munising due to blowing snow off Lake Superior causing white-out conditions. Additionally, up to 12 inches of snow is forecasted for West Michigan by Tuesday.
