Subzero Temps To Last Through The Week

Cold Prompts Safety Concerns

Local minimum wind chill reports as of Dec. 27 included -46 F in Poplar, -44 F at the Glasgow airport, -43 in Wolf Point and -31 F in Culbertson. Temperatures remained frigid throughout the region at press time.

National Weather Service Glasgow meteorologist/ general forecaster Richard J. Maliawco, Jr. said subzero conditions are expected to continue at least through the end of the week.

“The Arctic air mass currently underway across northeast Montana is expected to linger for the next several days, offering a prolonged threat of dangerous wind chills and frigid temperatures,” said Maliawco. “Wind chills of 20 to 50 below at times are expected through this week.”

Maliawco said the cold conditions have prompted NWS and other organizations to issue warnings, advising caution to area residents.

“To stay safe from the dangers of frostbite and hypothermia, dress in warm layers, including a hat and gloves, when outside. Frostbite can occur on unprotected skin within 10 minutes in these conditions. If traveling, have a winter safety kit packed in your vehicle. Include things like a blanket, shovel, snow/ ice scraper, jumper cables, drinking water and a flashlight,” said Maliawco.

He added that pipes may need special attention.

“It is a good idea to let faucets drip to prevent pipes from freezing during the prolonged cold spell,” he said.

Maliawco said conditions may improve somewhat by the weekend, but noted that colder than normal conditions will likely persist for several weeks.

Said Maliawco, “While the cold temperatures are here to stay, longer term forecast guidance suggests that temperatures may start to recover toward the end of the week, or to kick off the new year over the first weekend of 2022. We’ll likely stay below normal for temperatures overall though through the next couple of weeks.”