This is what we get for mocking Mother Nature all through December.
The National Weather Service in Upton is warning of potentially “life threatening” wind chill values and recording-breaking temperatures starting late Saturday—a significant deep freeze that increases the chances of hypothermia and frostbite.
Long Island could see subzero temperatures along with wind chill values ranging from -20 to -30 degrees, forecasters said.
The arctic blast has prompted the weather service to issue a wind chill advisory, starting 4 p.m. Saturday and continuing until noon Sunday.
Saturday’s forecast calls for temperatures in the teens throughout the day before it plummets to dangerously cold levels when the sun goes down.
The most brutal wind chills will begin late Saturday, forecaster said.
“Cold spells of this magnitude bring a risk of frostbite and hypothermia for anyone who does not take proper precautions,” the weather service warned.
Meteorologists recommend residents not only take of their bodies but also be mindful of pipes freezing due to plunging temperatures.
If you dare to brave the bitter, bone-chilling cold, make sure you wear several layers of clothing and a hat and gloves, the weather service advised. Symptoms of hypothermia include confusion, dizziness, exhaustion and severe shivering, the weather service said.
To prevent pipes from freezing, the agency recommended homeowners run water at a trickle and keep cabinet doors open.
“Never use a stove or oven to heat your home or use an open flame to melt frozen pipes,” the agency warned, adding, “Many house fires result from these practices.”
Much colder, possibly record breaking temperatures in store for the weekend. pic.twitter.com/mUWjdR78eb
— NWS New York NY (@NWSNewYorkNY) February 10, 2016
Drivers are urged to check the status of car batteries and monitor tire pressure. If you’re traveling, make sure to bring a blanket and warm clothes in the event a car break downs.
Long Islanders will get a taste of things to come Friday evening as temperatures are expected to be in the single digits.
In preparation for the deep freeze, Nassau is opening up warming centers across the county that will be operational through the weekend.
Love-struck couples enjoying Valentine’s Day festivities will have to bundle up Sunday as temperatures are expected to reach the mid-teens.
A much-needed reprieve will come early next week, forecasters said. The mercury is expected to climb to around freezing on Monday and—wait for it—50 degrees on Tuesday.
Bundle up, folks!
Here are some cold weather safety tips:
Some cold weather safety tips ahead of the upcoming cold outbreak this weekend. Stay warm and stay safe! pic.twitter.com/JpcKQ65Uv2
— NWS New York NY (@NWSNewYorkNY) February 11, 2016
What’s the wind chill?
What is the wind chill and how is it calculated. Look no further! pic.twitter.com/U3w0ipV5Lm
— NWS New York NY (@NWSNewYorkNY) February 11, 2016
