Northwestern Environmental Health and Safety

Winter Weather Alert

January 2026

Summary

The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Watch from Thursday night through Friday morning, with wind chills expected to reach dangerously low levels of –25°F to –35°F. In addition, gusty snow showers are forecast this evening, followed by wind gusts exceeding 40 mph overnight. Patchy blowing and drifting snow may create locally hazardous conditions for travel and outdoor activities.

Safety tips

Those working outdoors should take the following precautions to protect themselves during inclement winter weather:

Monitor weather and delay outdoor work during hazardous conditions, if possible
Use slip-resistant footwear, handrails, and slow, careful movement
Wear layered, weatherproof clothing, including hat and gloves
Take warm-up breaks in dry areas
Avoid alcohol and drink water or warm non-caffeinated fluids
Watch for cold stress symptoms (e.g., shivering, slurred speech)

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