Cold Snap Slaps Wisconsin: How to Handle it Safely

MADISON, Wis. (CIVIC MEDIA) – Blustery winds are surging in arctic air that’s plummeting the state sub-zero, here’s ways to stay warm when winter weather hits hard.

Dangerous wind chills are creeping into the state today and into Thursday.

Dress in layers to avoid sweating in these conditions. That can lead to hypothermia rapidly.

Always cover exposed skin, as frostbite can occur within 30 minutes when it’s this cold out. Winds are expected to gain speed and gust up to 40mph, dragging in plummeting temperatures that will bottom out sub-zero. Making it really feel closer to 20 below.

• If you suspect hypothermia, call for emergency help.
• Get out of the cold, remove wet clothes and wrap up in a warm blanket.
• If possible, soak the skin with frostbite in a tub or sink of warm water for about 30 minutes. For frostbite on the nose or ears, cover the area with warm, wet cloths for about 30 minutes. Another option is to warm the affected skin with body heat. For example, tuck frostbitten fingers under an armpit.
• Don’t walk on frostbitten feet or toes if possible.
• Take a nonprescription pain reliever if needed.
• Drink a warm, nonalcoholic beverage.
• Remove rings or other tight items. Do this before the injured area swells with rewarming.
• Don’t apply direct heat. For example, don’t warm the skin with a heating pad, a heat lamp, a blow-dryer or a car heater.
• Don’t rub the frostbitten skin.

Warming stations across Wisconsin are opening their doors. With an overall rise in the unhoused population, many vulnerable residents may have difficulty finding somewhere to keep warm through these freezing temperatures. In many communities, community gathering spaces like recreation centers, libraries, and churches may be used as warming stations during the day. A full list of warming stations, including those available for overnight use, can be found through 211 Wisconsin.

Practice proper ice safety as temperatures cool down. Some sheets of ice may look safe to walk on at first glance but not every body of water has been cold enough for long enough at this point in the season. Residents planning to get out on the ice for some fishing should check with their local fishing clubs, bring the proper safety equipment with them, and tell people where they’re going and when they expect to return. Remember you need at least 4” thickness to walk out on safely.