BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — On Tuesday, North Dakota experienced extreme cold temperatures reminiscent of the North Pole as record lows were shattered in the state's capital, Bismarck, and other regions. The National Weather Service reported that Bismarck recorded a staggering minus 39 degrees Fahrenheit, breaking the previous record of minus 37 degrees Fahrenheit, which had stood since 1910 for the same date. Additionally, on Monday night, Bismarck reached minus 35 degrees Fahrenheit, surpassing a 150-year-old record of minus 30 degrees Fahrenheit established on February 17.
The brutal cold was not limited to North Dakota alone; much of the Midwest, including Iowa, Minnesota, and Nebraska, also faced double-digit subzero temperatures. Such extreme conditions prompted officials to advise residents to bundle up properly. Meteorologist James Telken emphasized the importance of wearing hats, jackets, and other winter gear, especially for those venturing outside, even for brief periods. Additionally, he cautioned pet owners to bring animals indoors to protect them from the harsh temperatures. He further emphasized the need for warm clothing for drivers in case they become stranded.
A gradual warming trend is expected to follow the record-breaking cold, with lows on Wednesday night predicted to fall in the minus 10s to minus 20s range across most of North Dakota. By Thursday, weather forecasts suggest that temperatures will rise, with lows anticipated to be in the single digits, both above and below zero. In a surprising turn, forecasted highs for the following Monday are projected to reach the 50s in parts of southwestern and south-central North Dakota, indicating a significant shift from the recent frigid conditions.
This sharp contrast in temperatures highlights the unpredictable nature of Midwestern winters, where residents must remain vigilant in preparing for rapidly changing weather. The records set during this cold snap underline the severity of the winter season in the region, reminding everyone to stay cautious and properly equipped for the cold.
