Area schools closed for wind-chill warning; snow expected

IRONWOOD — The Gogebic Range was included in a National Weather Service wind-chill advisory through noon today, closing area schools.

The advisory was also in effect in Minnesota.

The weather service warned that wind-chill readings could dip as low as 33-below, as west winds of 5 to 15 miles per hour were expected to gust up to 25 mph.

The temperature at 11 a.m. Wednesday in Ironwood was 2 degrees, although the sun was shining. The wind-chill reading at that time was minus-4.

Looking ahead, the coldest day coming up will be Sunday, when a high of minus-2 and low of minus-13 is predicted.

Frostbite under such conditions can set in as soon as 30 minutes and can lead to hypothermia.

Anyone venturing outside was advised to wear plenty of layers of clothing and sufficient hand and head protection.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation said a winter storm may impact much of Wisconsin on Friday and Saturday, with areas seeing 6 inches or more of snowfall.

The WDOT advises:

—Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights before driving.

—Go slow. Posted speed limits are for dry pavement.

—Leave plenty of room for stopping.

—Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows.

—Don’t get overconfident in a four-by-four vehicle.

—Don’t use cruise control in wintry conditions.

—Ralph Ansami