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Chapel Hill Prepares for Unusually Low Temperatures

For the current forecast,go to: http://www.noaa.gov

When using alternative transportation be sure to note winter weather changes that can occur quickly with little warning. Be prepared with a back up plan if the weather becomes too serious for safe cycling or walking. Remember that all buses are equipped with bike racks. Wear warm layers anytime outdoors, have shoes that can withstand moisture, an umbrella, warm gloves and hat for unexpected weather changes. And ESPECIALLY DURING CLOUDY, RAINY, ICY, or SNOWY DAYS, be sure to have reflective clothing or lights on, shining brightly, when out and about.

Watch for others that might be in trouble and need help, and too watch for those that might not see you when you are walking or cycling.

Hypothermia – occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it.

o It can be caused by exposure to cold air, water, wind or rain
o Loss of dexterity without protective clothing in water temperatures between 32.5 and 50 degrees can occur in less than two minutes up to five minutes
o Exhaustion or unconsciousness can occur in water temperatures between 32.5 and 50 degrees in less than 15 minutes up to 60 minutes.

In an effort to keep everyone safe, here is a list of tips to keep in mind ahead of and during the cold weather:
– If someone is experiencing signs of hypothermia (shivering, dizziness, fatigue, shallow breathing, among others), first call 911, then, if possible, carefully and slowly take the person inside.
– Carefully remove wet clothing, and cover him or her in layers of blankets while you wait for emergency help to arrive.

WEEK OF JANUARY 7-11, 2015: The National Weather Service is projecting unusually low temperatures in Chapel Hill on Wednesday, which are expected to last until Friday morning.

The National Weather Service is projecting unusually low temperatures in Chapel Hill on Wednesday, which are expected to last until Friday morning.

Wednesday’s forecast high is 36 degrees; Wednesday night’s low is 10 degrees. The record low is 8 degrees set in 2014.
Thursday’s forecast high is 27 degrees; Thursday night’s low is 16 degrees. The record low is 9 degrees set in 1970.

For more information, visit http://www.readync.org. And, download the ReadyNC app on your iPhone or Android smartphone.