GRAND FORKS, N.D. (NWS) – The National Weather Service office has issued an Extreme Cold Warning due to sub-freezing temperatures and dangerously cold wind chills of 40 to 50 below zero in North Dakota and Minnesota.

For most of North Dakota and Minnesota over the next few days expect an Extreme Cold Warning has been issued from noon Thursday to noon CST Friday along with an Extreme Cold Watch, from Friday afternoon through Sunday morning. The dangerously cold wind chills of 50 below zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 5 minutes.

Livestock owners and pet owners should take all necessary precautions to protect your animals during these bitterly cold temperatures now through Monday. If you get stranded in your vehicle make sure you stay in your vehicle and have a winter survival kit. If that happens call 9-1-1.