Wind Chill Advisory until noon in the Twin Cities

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Tuesday morning greeted the Twin Cities with frigid temperatures below -20, and a Wind Chill Advisory will be in effect until noon. We’ll see some sun and a high of 2 degrees with the “warmest” wind chill temperature at -15.

The temperature is expected to climb into the teens on Wednesday, and back up to nearly 30 on Thursday.

Stages of Frostbite
Source: Hennepin County Medical Center

First Degree Frostbite: A mild form of frostbite in which your skin turns red and feels really cold.

Second Degree Frostbite: In this stage the reddened skin will turn white or very pale. Upon warming, blisters may appear. This results in some tissue and nerve damage.

Third Degree Frostbite: Affecting all layers of the skin, the area will turn black and hard as tissue dies.

First Aid for Frostbite

Avoid rubbing the area, especially with snow.

Don't walk on frostbitten feet or use a frostbitten hand.

Avoid thawing the affected area if you are far from help or if there is a chance of refreezing.

If you are in a permanent shelter and can thaw a frostbitten area:

Immerse area for 20-45 minutes in tepid water (same temperature as a hot tub), never use hot water.

As it thaws, it will turn pink or bright red and sensation may return.

Do not put salves or creams on frostbite.

Protect area from refreezing and seek medical attention.

Prevent frostbite

Dress in layers and keep your clothing dry.

Wear mittens instead of gloves, fingers are warmer together.

Drink responsibly in cold weather — alcohol creates a sensation of warmth, but it actually decreases core body temperature.

Bundle up your kids, and monitor how long they're outside.

On the very cold days limit your time outdoors.

If you notice any symptoms, like tingling and burning, get out of the cold immediately.

Shelters open

The following Salvation Army locations will allow people to come in and warm-up, Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

2024 Lyndale Ave N, Minneapolis
2727 Central Ave., Minneapolis
1019 Payne Ave, St. Paul, includes a free meal at 12 p.m., Monday through Friday
401 W. 7th Street, St. Paul, includes a free breakfast at 7:30 a.m., Monday through Friday
10011 Noble Parkway, Brooklyn Park
10347 Ibis Street NW, Coon Rapids, includes a free meal 5:30 p.m. every Monday and Wednesday