Mount Kato closes until Wednesday, citing dangerously cold temperatures

MANKATO, Minn. (KEYC) -Sub-zero temperatures and harsh wind chills are making winter’s presence known.

Cold this harsh can be dangerous, and the Mankato Clinic said that side-effects like frostbite could set in quickly if someone ventures outside unprepared.

“If you can stay inside that’s going to be the best plan,” said Dr. James Dungan with the Mankato Clinic. “But if you have to be outside you want to dress in layers and stay well-hydrated. Limit your exposure outside because sometimes in as little as 10 minutes it can start to get frostbite.”

Mankato clinic wants anyone exposed to such conditions to get into warm, dry clothing and potentially lukewarm water, avoiding hot water or fireplaces as too much heat could cause further damage.

Mount Kato has decided to close until Wednesday, citing the cold temperatures as the chief cause.

Leaders at the slopes said that just a few years ago they wouldn’t have made that decision, but they’ve gotten more cautious over the years, aiming for the safety of skiers and staff alike.

Mount Kato also urges everyone to be safe in the cold, saying that they have seen more and more people entering winter weather and the slopes unprepared.

“We see it more than we used to, a lot more. I don’t know what it is or what the deal is. You drive by bus stops nowadays and you see the kids in t-shirts and shorts in the middle of winter and you kind of just wonder why,” said Mount Kato’s John Nelson.

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