Polar Vortex Blasts Vikings with Chilly RecordPolar Vortex Blasts Vikings with Chilly Record The unforgiving grip of the polar vortex has descended upon the frozen tundra of Minnesota, shattering temperature records and sending a shiver down the spines of even the hardiest Vikings. Minneapolis plummeted to a bone-chilling -24 degrees Fahrenheit on Wednesday morning, far surpassing the previous record of -17 degrees set in 1996. The frigid temperatures extended to St. Paul, which recorded a record-breaking -22 degrees. The icy blast has not spared any corner of the state, with even the normally temperate Duluth experiencing a record-setting -17 degrees. The wind chill pushed temperatures into the perilous territory of -50 degrees in some areas, threatening frostbite within minutes. Residents have been advised to take precautions against the extreme cold, including limiting outdoor exposure, dressing warmly, and avoiding alcohol consumption. Schools and businesses have been closed in many areas due to hazardous conditions. The polar vortex is a massive area of low pressure that rotates around the North Pole and occasionally dips southward, bringing brutally cold temperatures to North America. This year, the vortex has been particularly strong, resulting in widespread cold snaps across the United States and Canada. Temperatures are expected to remain dangerously low throughout the week, with little relief in sight. Forecasters predict that the polar vortex will maintain its grip on the region until the weekend, when a slight warming trend is possible. In the meantime, the Vikings have been forced to endure their coldest home game in franchise history. The team will host the Green Bay Packers on Sunday night in conditions that are expected to be the coldest in Lambeau Field history. Fans are advised to bundle up and bring plenty of blankets and hand warmers to stay safe during the game. The Vikings, for their part, will be hoping that their record-setting cold does not translate into a record-setting loss.
