Local emergency officials warn of potentially life-threatening conditions as extremely cold temperatures and gusty winds make their way into our area.
A Wind Chill Watch is in effect for North and Central Georgia from late Thursday night through Saturday morning. Wind Chills could reach as low as 15 to 20 degrees below zero which can result in hypothermia and frostbite within just a few minutes.
As the cold front passes, temperatures are expected to fall rapidly, dropping from the upper 40s at midnight Thursday to the low 20s by 7 a.m. Friday morning. Temperatures will continue to fall into the teens by Friday night.
Subfreezing temperatures are expected to last through Christmas Day on Sunday.
“This has the potential of being a very dangerous situation, and preparations for frigid cold weather should be underway,” urges White County Emergency Operations Center Division Chief Don Strength.
The following slides show expected real and apparent temperatures (wind chills) for Christmas weekend.
RELATED: Wind Chill Watch issued
In extreme cold, it’s best to stay indoors if you can but if you must venture outside, make sure you’re prepared.
- Dress in layers and wear a hat, scarf (or other face covering), and mittens to retain body heat. Waterproof jackets and boots are also advisable in the event of rain.
- Stock your home and office with supplies in case of a power outage.
- Protect outdoor pets, pipes, plants, and farm animals.
- Gas up your vehicle, and carry an emergency supply kit in your car.
Suggested supplies for severe winter weather:
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and portable radio to receive emergency information
- Battery-powered cellphone chargers
- Extra food and water such as dried fruit, nuts, granola bars, and other food that requires no cooking or refrigeration.
- Extra prescription medicine
- Baby items such as diapers and formula
- First-aid supplies
- Heating fuel. Refuel before you’re empty as winter storms can cause delays in fuel carrier deliveries.
- An emergency heat source such as a fireplace, wood stove, or space heater that’s properly ventilated to prevent a fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Fire extinguisher and smoke alarm. Test smoke alarms to ensure they work properly.
- Extra pet food and warm shelter for pets
- Review generator safety: Never run a generator in an enclosed space.
- Make sure your carbon monoxide detector is working correctly and that the outside vent is clear of leaves and debris.
- Home fires are common each winter when trying to stay warm. Review ways to keep your home and loved ones safe.
For more cold weather safety tips, visit weather.gov/safety.
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Dean Dyer of WRWH Radio in Cleveland contributed to this report
