‘Stay Indoors’ As Frigid Weather Is On The Way

Temperatures are transitioning from rather mild to well below normal. National Weather Service Meteorologist Shawna Coakley says this cold weather will stick around for a few days.

“We’re going to have temperatures quite a bit below normal through the weekend,” she says. “Thursday we’re expecting the coldest day so far, probably struggling to get out of the upper-20’s.”

Coakley says there are dangerous situations that can develop with the frigid temperatures.

“We’re not expecting precipitation over that time period, but there is the possibility we could see some wind chill issues,” she says. “Lows Wednesday night will be into the teens, possibly nearing single digits.”

Last year, “Polar Vortex” seemed to be everyone’s catchphrase; Coakley says that, while it’s fun to say, the polar vortex is not an anomaly.

“The polar vortex is always there,” she says. “We frequently get pieces that break off and can influence our weather.”

Even though we may not see any snow or ice associated with this system, Coakley says it is still important to take precautions if you have to venture into the cold weather.

“The best thing to do is stay indoors as much as possible,” she says. “[If you are outside] cover any exposed skin and try to stay out of the wind because that can lead to problems with frostbite or hypothermia.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing signs of hypothermia – shivering, dizziness, fatigue, and shallow breathing – call 911 immediately.

Chapel Hill town officials are taking the opportunity to remind residents to have your heating systems checked. This time of year, residents are also reminded to not bring any outdoor heating devices – including grills or outdoor propane heaters – inside because there is an increased risk of setting fire to your home.

Leaders are also reminding residents to leave your water on a slow drip to reduce chances of a burst pipe, in cases where pipes are affixed to an outdoor wall and you do not have alternate ways to insulate the pipe.

Also, pets should either have an adequate structure with proper insulation or should be brought inside to ensure their safety.