MISSOURI AND ILLINOIS — A reinforcing Arctic air mass is settling across the region, bringing several consecutive days of bitter cold to much of Missouri and Illinois, including the St. Louis metro area. Forecast guidance shows morning wind chills near or below zero each day, with Monday shaping up as the coldest and most uncomfortable day due to a combination of frigid air and persistent breezy winds.
Meteorologists say this is not a one-morning cold snap. Instead, the pattern favors extended exposure to dangerous cold, especially during the early morning and overnight hours.
What the Wind Chill Forecast Shows
According to the latest outlook, wind chills will remain the primary concern, even during daylight hours.
- Sunday Morning:
- Wind chills around −5° to +5°F
- Monday Morning (Coldest Period):
- Wind chills dropping to −15° to +5°F, especially in exposed areas
- Breezy conditions will continue through the day, keeping it feeling much colder than actual air temperatures
- Tuesday Morning:
- Wind chills still near 0° to 10°F, slow improvement but remaining hazardous
Despite slightly higher afternoon readings, wind will prevent meaningful relief, particularly on Monday.
Why Monday Is the Coldest Day
Forecasters point to stronger surface winds on Monday as the key factor. Even if temperatures rise a few degrees during the afternoon, breezy northwest winds will keep wind chill values dangerously low throughout much of the day.
This increases the risk of:
- Frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 15–30 minutes
- Hypothermia, especially for those without proper winter clothing
- Icy conditions lingering on roads, sidewalks, and untreated surfaces
Impacts Residents Should Prepare For
The prolonged nature of this cold increases impacts beyond discomfort.
- Morning commutes will be harsh, especially before sunrise
- School delays are possible Tuesday morning due to extreme cold
- Frozen pipes become more likely without proper precautions
- Outdoor workers and pets face elevated risk
Officials urge residents to limit time outdoors, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and ensure pets are brought inside whenever possible.
When Will Conditions Improve?
Temperatures are expected to slowly moderate after Tuesday morning, but winter remains firmly in control. Even as daytime highs recover slightly, cold mornings will continue to pose risks until Arctic air finally retreats later in the week…