An extreme cold warning is threatening Northeast Ohio, with startling overnight temperatures projected to be as cold as 25-below-zero with wind chills.
It’s more than enough reason for school to be canceled on Wednesday.
Dr. Steve Dorsey is the assistant medical director of the emergency department at the Cleveland Clinic’s main campus. He said this brutal cold is a real threat to the health of everyone across the region. Conditions like frostbite and hypothermia can happen in a matter of minutes.
Frostbite can lead to permanent, irreversible tissue damage.
Hypothermia happens when your body temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit and can lead to death.
There is also an increased fall risk in these frigid temperatures, especially for the elderly.
While some may be motivated to spend time outdoors, sledding or playing in the snow, Dorsey suggested playing it safe by staying indoors until the weather balances to more normal temperatures. But if you do have to be outside, wear multiple layers and minimize skin exposure.