Arctic cold wave will continue across central North Carolina
through the weekend...
A very cold air mass over the region will bring dangerously
frigid temperatures and wind chills through the weekend. Readings
will be as low as 20 to 25 degrees below normal for this time of
year. Lows overnight will be in the teens across central North
Carolina, with wind chills in the single digits. Highs Sunday will
be in the 30s to low 40s.
Take steps now to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your
property from the extreme cold. Limit your time outside, if
possible. Hypothermia can result with prolonged exposure and a
lack of proper clothing. If you do go outside, wear several
layers of loose fitting, warm clothing rather than one layer of
heavy clothing. Mittens are warmer than gloves. Wear a hat, and
cover your mouth with a scarf. If driving, keep your gas tank near
full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines. Check your
antifreeze and windshield washer fluid levels. Be sure to carry a
fully charged cell phone.
If you are at home, consider allowing indoor plumbing fixtures to
drip, to allow water to trickle through pipes and inhibit
freezing. Use caution with space heaters in order to avoid fire or
injury. Never bring outdoor heating sources such as grills
indoors. If emergency generators will be used, they must be
situated outdoors in well-ventilated areas to prevent carbon
monoxide poisoning. Also, remember to check in on family, friends,
and elderly neighbors who might be susceptible to the cold. Do
not forget about your pets and livestock. Make sure they have a
source of water that will not freeze and a warm place to take
shelter from the wind and cold.