Dangerous Wind Chills for the Twin Tiers

The National Weather Service in Binghamton is warning much of the state about dangerous weather conditions including wind chills for the Twin Tiers that could reach as low as 35 below zero.

A Wind Chill Warning is in effect from midnight tonight until 7 a.m.

The National Weather Service says the coldest wind chills are expected to be recorded in the morning.  In addition, winds could reach up to 30 mph with gusts as high as 45 mph.

A Wind Chill Warning is issued when bitterly cold temperatures combined with winds create extremely dangerous conditions for exposed skin.

NOAA says the dangerous wind chills could cause frostbite in 15 minutes or less and poses the danger of hypothermia.

People who must venture out in the cold are urged to cover all exposed flesh, especially fingers and noses to guard against frostbite.

NOAA Meteorologist Dave Nicosia says this year, cold weather  systems that would normally be seen in areas like Siberia are set up in North America.

In addition to protecting skin from the cold, Nicosia says residents should be aware how to protect their pipes and know where the water shut-offs are.

He adds motorists should make sure their vehicles are prepared for the weather, including maintaining property tire pressure and exercise caution when handling metal, like gas pumps and tire air hoses to again, guard against frostbite.

The latest weather conditions can be found at www.weather.gov/bgm.