Safety tips for extreme cold temperatures

The ABC 17 Stormtrack Weather team forecasts temperatures in much of mid-Missouri to remain near freezing on Friday, and that wind chills will make the environment feel even colder.

In such conditions, safety officials say it’s important to be aware of and watch out for the potential of cold weather-related illnesses such as frostbite and hypothermia.

Frostbite occurs when the skin and tissue just below it begins to freeze. The risk of frostbite is compounded on exposed extremities, and when windy conditions mix with extreme low temperatures and create a dangerous wind chill.

Hypothermia is the result of a dangerously low body temperature and is considered the most common winter weather killer. The illness typically occurs when the subject is exposed to the elements for extended periods of time.

The NOAA said it’s possible for hypothermia deaths to occur in temperatures between 30 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The administration also said the risk of the disease is heightened when the victim or their clothes are wet.

The National Weather Service offers the following advice for surviving the extreme cold temperatures:

Stay dry. Wet clothing results in much faster heat loss from your body. Wear waterproof insulated boots. Stay covered. Wear mittens or gloves, and wear a hat. At least half of your body heat is lost if your head is not covered. Dress layered. Trapped air between loose fitting clothing helps to insulate. Stay informed. Have a portable NOAA weather radio nearby to keep you up-to-date with the latest forecasts and warnings. Use wind chill temperatures to guide you in dressing properly for the outdoors. On very cold days, minimize your exposure to the outdoors if possible.

You can find out much more information by visiting the National Weather Service’s website.

Sign up for email news alerts by clicking here