Extreme cold watch to take effect Thursday in east-central Minnesota

An extreme cold watch is set to take effect on Thursday across east-central Minnesota, bringing dangerously cold wind chills to the region.

According to the National Weather Service, the alert will begin at 6 p.m. Thursday in Pine County, and 9 p.m. elsewhere in east-central Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin.

It extends through noon on Saturday.

The National Weather Service states that wind chills as low as 45 degrees below zero are possible, which could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.

Residents are advised to make frequent checks on older family, friends, and neighbors; keep pets indoors as much as possible; and ensure indoor heaters are used correctly.

For updates on weather-related closures, cancellations, and delays, visit the WCMP and KBEK Facebook pages.