Cold enough for ya? The answer to that question for virtually everyone across the United States will be a resounding “YES!” by Friday.
Meteorologists nationwide are warning millions of Americans about the potentially dangerous frigid temperatures that will be washing across the country from sea to shining sea.
The National Weather Service reported that the strong arctic cold front started its march on Wednesday and could force a number of areas into record-low temperatures by the time it blankets the continental U.S. on Friday.
Several state leaders have declared states of emergency in anticipation of the extreme cold.
Missouri Governor Mike Parson has activated the National Guard in order to aid state residents with the difficulties the weather change might bring.
And in Georgia, Governor Brian Kemp warned residents to be prepared.
“Communities across the state are about to see temperatures that they haven’t experienced in a decade or more,” Kemp said. “And we just want to urge all Georgians to be ready.”
Americans are urged to remember the “4 P’s” when it comes to preparation: People, pets, pipes and plants.
Exposed pipes should be wrapped or covered to prevent breaks caused by freezing. Plants should also be wrapped or brought inside.
Likewise, all pets should be brought indoors as the temperatures drop, as the cold can be incredibly dangerous for them.
And any elderly family members or neighbors could also do with a check-in to ensure they have enough blankets or a suitably warm place to stay and that their homes are properly winterized.
Officials are also advising safety measures when using space heaters and fireplaces. Space heaters should be placed on a hard, level surface and at least three feet away from anything flammable.
Fireplaces should have screens, either glass or metal, to catch sparks or rolling logs. And both space heaters and fireplaces should not be utilized untended or while the residents of the home are sleeping.
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