Single Digit Temps, Wind Chill Make For Frigid Day, Code Blue Extended
BALTIMORE (WJZ)-- An Arctic blast that moved in behind a huge nor'easter that hit the East Coast Thursday is creating frigid conditions in Maryland and throughout the Northeast, and wind gusts are making matters worse.
Almost all of Maryland is under a Wind Chill Advisory until noon Saturday.
According to WJZ's Marty Bass, wind was already a factor midday, with gusts up to 36 mph creating a real feel temperature of -3 degrees in Baltimore.
Because of the extreme cold, the Baltimore City Health Department has extended the Code Blue Alert that was originally issued on Christmas night to this upcoming Monday morning.
It is the fifth Code Blue alert for Baltimore this season.
RELATED: Nor'easter Hits Md., Leaving Behind Cold Temps, Snow; Wind Chill Advisory In Effect
"As we continue to battle some of the season's coldest temperatures, it is important that all Baltimoreans take precaution," says Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Leana Wen. "Hypothermia, or low body temperature, can be just as dangerous as extreme heat, and every year, there are Baltimoreans who die due to hypothermia."
Last winter, 11 died from hypothermia in the city. This winter, there has been two deaths from hypothermia.
Wen is asking residents to stay indoors or in heated areas, and to check in on vulnerable neighbors. Residents are encouraged to contact 311 if a neighbor is without heat or power so that city agencies can assist them.
For other cold-related inquiries and service requests, or to find a nearby homeless shelter, residents can call 311 or 211.
RELATED: Winter Snow Storm Freezes Flights Across U.S. Including BWI
#WJZ #FIRSTWARNINGWX The reality of this late midday. pic.twitter.com/i2rCVAmfem
— Marty Bass WJZ (@MartyBassWJZ) January 5, 2018
Cold Weather Tips for Staying Healthy:
• Wear multiple layers of loose-fitting clothing.
• Always wear a head covering, like a hat and/or scarf, when outdoors.
• Drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcoholic beverages.
• Protect yourself against falls in icy or snowy conditions.
• Check on those who are the most vulnerable, including children, the elderly and/or chronically ill. For babies, follow the ABCDs of infant safe sleep (see resource guide here).
• Provide appropriate shelter for domestic animals.
Other Tips for Keeping Safe in Cold Weather:
• Keep space heaters and candles away from flammable materials, such as curtains, furniture and loose clothing.
• Check your smoke detector and carbon monoxide detectors and make sure they are working.
• Do not use prohibited heat or power sources, such as stoves or generators. They may cause fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Do not leave your car running in a closed space such as a garage.
For more information about Code Blue, visit http://health.baltimorecity.gov/.
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