Cold temperatures grip central Illinois with wind chill values reaching zero and below
Cold and hazardous weather has arrived in central Illinois with temperatures dropping into the single digits.
Sangamon and surrounding counties are expected to have very cold wind chills of 10 degrees below zero to 15 below zero in the upcoming days, according to the National Weather Service.
NWS meteorologist Mike Albano said the area is not under any weather advisories. "It's still dangerously cold for at-risk populations," Albano said.
Today's forecast for Springfield called for a high of 17 degrees with wind chill values between 7 degrees below zero and 3.
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Albano said by Saturday high temperatures should rise into the mid-30s. By Monday there is a chance to break into the 40s. However, by the middle of next week – Tuesday night and Wednesday morning – it will be really cold again with wind chills close to zero.
The area is expected to see this pattern until the end of the month, Albano said.
There were no reports this morning of school closings because of the cold temperatures.
The NWS provides tips on how to stay safe and warm during times of extreme cold.
To avoid possible fires, slightly open a window when using a kerosene heater and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Never use a gas oven to heat a home. When using wood-burning stoves, fireplaces and heaters, always keep a screen around an open flame. Never use gasoline to start your fireplace and never burn charcoal indoors.
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Extremely cold weather can cause pipes to freeze. Water pipes on exterior walls and in places that are subject to cold, like in the basement, attic, and under kitchen cabinets, freeze most often, according to the weather service. If pipes become frozen, first turn on the faucet. Water will begin to drip as the pipes warm up. Heat the pipes using a space heater, heating pad, electric hair dryer or hot water on a cloth. Never use an open flame.
The NWS also warns about the danger of frostbite. “The arctic air, together with brisk winds, can lead to dangerously cold wind chill values. People exposed to extreme cold are susceptible to frostbite in a matter of minutes. Areas most prone to frostbite are uncovered skin and the extremities, such as hands and feet. Hypothermia is another threat during extreme cold.”
This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Springfield IL weather: Cold blast brings severe wind chills to area
