The National Weather Service has issued a Cold Weather Advisory that will be in effect Friday morning. Wind chills as low as 28 degrees below zero are possible and the dangerous cold weather is expected to continue through early Monday with wind chills as low as 20 degrees below zero.
Several inches of snow is also possible late Friday through Saturday. The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department is urging residents to take precautions and stay safe during the cold spell and has issued these safety tips:
- Dress properly – Wear a hat, scarf, gloves or mittens, water-resistant coat and boots, and several layers of loose-fitting clothing and cover exposed skin to stay warm and dry.
- Avoid overexertion – Shoveling snow takes a lot of effort and can be demanding on your heart. Avoid overexertion and take frequent rest breaks while moving snow off sidewalks and driveways. Your heart and body will thank you.
- Move carefully – Ice and snow increase the risk of falling. Avoid walking on ice when possible and move slowly. Take small steps from side to side like a penguin and wear shoes that have good traction.
- Check on relatives, neighbors and friends who may be a higher risk for cold-related illness or who live alone. Make sure they have what they need to stay warm. Remember to check on pets and bring them inside if possible.
- Use heating equipment safely to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Check CO and smoke alarms to ensure they’re working properly. Don’t warm up cars in the garage. Never operate a portable generator inside any indoor space, including a garage or shed and don’t use ovens or grills to heat your home.
- Stay warm – During extreme cold and severe winter weather, the safest choice for most residents is to stay indoors. Icy roads and extreme cold can increase risk of injury. Local warming centers are public places where people can go to get temporary relief from extreme cold. If you need to travel to reach a warming center, please do so carefully.
Click here for more details, including warming centers that will be available throughout the city.