The National Weather Service still has a wind chill advisory in effect starting tonight and continuing until noon Thursday. Wind chill values could be in the -20 to -30 degree range.
Here is some advice for dealing with the cold from the Kenosha County Health Department:
As temperatures drop and wind chill advisories are in effect, the Kenosha County Division of Health is issuing tips for keeping warm and safe during extreme weather. Serious health problems can result from prolonged exposure to the cold. The most common cold-related problems are hypothermia and frostbite. HYPOTHERMIA – When exposed to cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than it can be produced. Prolonged exposure to cold will eventually use up your body’s stored energy. The result is hypothermia, or abnormally low body temperature. Warning signs of hypothermia: Adults: shivering, exhaustion, confusion, memory loss, slurred speech, drowsiness. Infants: bright red, cold skin, very low energy. What to Do: If you notice any of these signs, take the person’s temperature. If it is below 95°F, the situation is an emergency—get medical attention immediately. FROSTBITE – Frostbite is an injury to the body that is caused by freezing. Frostbite causes a loss of feeling and color in affected areas. It most often affects the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, or toes. Frostbite can permanently damage the body. The risk of frostbite is increased in people with reduced blood circulation and among people who are not dressed properly for extremely cold temperatures. Recognizing Frostbite: At the first signs of redness or pain in any skin area, get out of the cold or protect any exposed skin—frostbite may be beginning. Any of the following signs may indicate frostbite: a white or grayish-yellow skin, skin that feels unusually firm or waxy, numbness.A victim is often unaware of frostbite until someone else points it out because the frozen tissues are numb. What to Do: If you detect symptoms of frostbite, seek medical care. Because frostbite and hypothermia both result from exposure, first determine whether the victim also shows signs of hypothermia, as described previously. Hypothermia is a more serious medical condition and requires emergency medical assistance. TAKING PREVENTIVE ACTION: Have furnaces checked annually for efficient and safe operation before the heating season arrives. Check on elderly relatives, friends and neighbors. Monitor the rooms where infants sleep or spend periods of time. When spending time outdoors, adults and children should dress warmly and stay dry. Layer clothing, preferably wind resistant, to reduce loss of body-heat caused by the wind. Tell relatives and friends where you are going and when you expect to return. Do not ignore shivering. It’s an important first sign that the body is losing heat. Persistent shivering is a signal to return indoors. TIPS TO SURVIVE THE COLD: 1. Go outdoors only when necessary. Make trips outside as brief as possible. 2. Dress warmly and stay dry. Adults and children should wear: a hat, a scarf or knit mask to cover face and mouth, sleeves that are snug at the wrist, mittens (they are warmer than gloves), water-resistant coat and boots, several layers of loose-fitting clothing. 3. Avoid alcohol. Alcoholic beverages interfere with circulation and impair judgment. 4. Eat well. Good nutrition helps keep body warm. For more information or, please call the Kenosha County Division of Health at (262) 605-6700, (800) 472-8008, or visit www.kenoshacounty.org
Here is some advice for dealing with cold weather driving from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation:
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is monitoring conditions to address potential hazardous driving conditions which could be brought on by blowing snow and the dangerously low temperatures. A wind chill advisory has been issued for all the Counties in Southeastern Wisconsin that will remain in place until noon on Thursday. Low temperatures limit any effect that salt has on the formation of ice on the roadway surfaces. Blowing and drifting of snow may contribute to limited visibility and the possible formation of hazardous road conditions. Slick and icy road conditions can be encountered without warning. WisDOT is encouraging motorists to follow winter driving tips such as keeping the fuel tank full and having your windows completely clear prior to leaving for your destination. If you are in an accident be sure to take precautions to avoid prolonged exposure to the dangerous temperatures. Also allow for potentially longer response times from police and tow truck operators due to higher demand for services. WisDOT is reminding motorist to allow extra time when traveling and to drive at speeds appropriate for the conditions. Overpasses, bridges and ramps are all susceptible to the creation of icy conditions. The Department is also reminding motorist that conditions are likely to vary across the region. For up to date information visit 511wi.gov or on Twitter @511wi.
