As massive winter storms move through most of the U.S. this week, significantly cold temperatures are on the horizon beginning Friday. Livestock producers must plan to protect their herds from windy and extremely cold conditions. Colorado State University Extension suggests moving livestock before extreme weather arrives.

Preparing for short bursts of extreme weather could include moving cattle into ravines, canyons or other natural windbreaks. High winds are the real culprit that affects animal health and productivity. One 20-mph wind is equivalent to a 30-degree drop in temperature.

The polar vortex coming to the Central U.S. will bring daytime highs in the single digits and overnight lows as low as 20 below zero, with windchills plunging temps to minus 30 or even minus 40 degrees in parts of Nebraska.

Read more on how to protect your cattle herd from extreme weather here.