Extreme Cold Temperatures Expected in Dane County

January 22, 2026
county.executive@danecounty.gov, 608-228-7224
County Executive

DANE COUNTY – With a period of extreme cold expected over the next few days in southern Wisconsin, Dane County agencies are encouraging everyone to take precautions to remain warm and safe.

 

“Bitter cold temperatures create dangerous conditions for anyone who works outdoors or lacks reliable access to heat,” said Dane County Executive Melissa Agard. “Please ensure that you and your loved ones take steps to protect against the cold weather expected to impact the region over the next few days.”

 

The National Weather Service forecasts a period of extreme cold beginning Thursday night and lasting through Saturday afternoon, which will mark the coldest temperatures in Dane County so far this season. During this time, parts of Dane County could experience wind chills as low as -40°F. The NWS has issued an Extreme Cold Warning for much of southern Wisconsin Thursday night through Friday afternoon, followed by a Cold Weather Advisory through Saturday at noon.

 

“Watches and warnings from the National Weather Service are a reminder to treat this hazardous cold as a potentially life-threatening situation,” said Dane County Emergency Management Director Charles Tubbs. “Think ahead on how you will handle the extreme cold, which may include rescheduling outdoor plans and staying with family or friends if you are concerned you do not have access to adequate heat.”

 

During periods of extreme cold, limit the time you spend outdoors. If you must go out, dress for the weather by putting on several layers of loose-fitting clothing, instead of a single heavy layer. Cover exposed skin to reduce your risk of frostbite and hypothermia. If you start to see signs of hypothermia, such as shivering, exhaustion, and confusion, call 9-1-1 or seek medical help immediately.

 

If you are concerned about your ability to stay warm or have trouble accessing reliable heat, consider going to publicly accessible locations. Libraries and community centers can provide residents with a heated space to spend the day safely.

 

If you are living unhoused, area shelters are declaring emergency weather nights (EWNs). This means that shelters do their best to get as many people as possible inside and safe, regardless of non-violent temporary service suspensions or shelter night limits. Updates and information on how to access shelters during this time can be found online at the Dane County Homeless Services Consortium Website.

 

During periods of extreme cold, it’s also important to check on your friends, family, and neighbors with a quick phone call or text to make sure they are warm and safe. “As climate change results in more erratic and extreme winter temperatures, it is critical that we all look out for one another.” said Kathy Kuntz, Director of the Dane County Office of Energy & Climate Change.

 

For the latest updates on the weather forecast and current conditions, be sure to check in with the National Weather Service and local media. You can also sign up to receive alerts from Dane County Emergency Management at https://em.countyofdane.com/notification-system/media.