An updated cold weather advisory was issued by the National Weather Service on Tuesday at 4:17 a.m. in effect until Thursday at 10 a.m. The advisory is for Inland Bryan, Coastal Bryan, Inland Chatham and Coastal Chatham as well as Jenkins, Screven, Candler, Bulloch, Effingham, Tattnall, Evans, Long, Liberty and McIntosh counties.
"Very cold wind chills of 15 to 20 degrees early this morning and 10 to 15 degrees above zero tonight and Wednesday night," adds the NWS. "This will be an unusually long period of bitterly cold weather. Daytime highs will only warm into the upper 30s to around 40 degrees today and mid to upper 30s Wednesday. Overnight lows will drop into the 20s tonight, then into the middle teens Wednesday night. Be sure to take protective actions to prepare both your home and business as well as yourself for this period of very cold weather."
"Frostbite and hypothermia will occur if unprotected skin is exposed to these temperatures. Wind chill values can lead to hypothermia with prolonged exposure," explains the NWS. "Use caution while traveling outside. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves. Make frequent checks on older family, friends, and neighbors. Ensure portable heaters are used correctly. Do not use generators or grills inside."
Understanding cold weather alerts
Cold weather advisory: Be Aware. A cold weather advisory is issued when seasonably cold air temperatures or wind chill values, but not extremely cold values, are expected or occurring. Be sure you and your loved ones dress appropriately and cover exposed skin when venturing outdoors.
Extreme cold warning: Take Action! An extreme cold warning is issued when dangerously cold air temperatures or wind chill values are expected or occurring. If you are in an area with an extreme cold warning, avoid going outside. If you have to go outside, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and make sure at least one other person knows your whereabouts. Update them when you arrive safely at your destination.
Extreme cold watch: Be Prepared. An extreme cold watch is issued when dangerously cold air temperatures or wind chill values are possible. As with a warning, adjust your plans to avoid being outside during the coldest parts of the day. Make sure your car has at least half a tank of gas, and update your winter survival kit.
Source: The National Weather Service
