Weather Explainers

Weather Words: Extreme Cold

How cold is extremely cold is probably a common argument during the winter, but did you know it has an actual definition?

What temperatures make “extreme cold” extreme?

We’ve recently had a lengthy discussion on the topic in the office and we figure you’ve probably had that discussion around the dinner table, too.

The term actually comes from the National Weather Service, but its definition depends on location.

We’ve all seen Floridians in turtlenecks and heavy pants when it is 60 degrees at the boardwalk with some snowbird right next to them wearing shorts and a sleeveless shirt.

The criteria for extreme cold vary similarly from north to south.

This photo is of the Chicago skyline during extreme cold.
(NOAA)

In the Dakotas, the temperature or the wind chill must drop to minus 40 degrees. In Florida, this number can be as “warm” as 20 degrees.

These are the temperatures at which warnings are issued because of the expectation that frostbite and hypothermia will occur. It is dangerous to be outside, even with multiple layers, at some temperatures.

Of course, these numbers aren’t worth much at the dinner table when it is frigid outside. How cold is extreme cold to you? Tell us below!