Frostbite possible in a matter of minutes

Published 8:18 am Thursday, January 20, 2011

MINNEAPOLIS — Dangerously cold temperatures are settling over Minnesota with wind chill readings that can cause frostbite to exposed skin in a matter of minutes.

Forecasters say daytime temperatures may not make it above zero in northern Minnesota. Friday morning lows could drop to minus-30 and colder from the Iron Range north.

In the Twin Cities, local shelters are reporting an increase in the number of people looking for warmth and a hot meal. The Salvation Army’s Harbor Light in downtown Minneapolis can accommodate as many as 500 people each night. Director Dominick Bouza says the number of people needing help is up about 15 percent.

The National Weather Service issued a wind chill advisory for much of Minnesota through Friday.