Plunging temperatures gripped New York on Friday, with the US National Weather Service warning that people in the city risked getting frostbite if they ventured outdoors unprotected.
If people did need to be outside, the weather service advised to wear gloves and hats. It added in a warning bulletin that “frostbite can occur in a short amount of time, so dress in layers and make sure all exposed skin is protected”.
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Frostbite is when freezing temperatures cause damage to exposed skin and underlying tissue and especially hits the extremities, like toes, fingers and noses.
The warning said that New York City’s temperatures would be as low as 15F to 20F on Friday but that winds reaching 30mph will make it feel considerably colder, down to around -5F. The extreme cold will linger until Sunday, when snowfall is expected
A spell of cold weather is sweeping across New York state, Vermont, Connecticut and Massachusetts, with the wind chill bringing temperatures as low as -25F (-3.9C).
New Yorkers have been asked to call authorities if they see homeless people or others out in the cold risking hypothermia, which can cause severe shivering, dizziness and shallow breathing.
“Strong winds can lower the body temperature faster than it normally would in calm conditions, leading to a quicker onset of hypothermia,” the National Weather Service tweeted. The service also reminded people to ensure their pets are kept warm.
Deanne Criswell, New York City’s emergency management commissioner, said people should stay indoors as much as possible. “Remember to virtually check in on your friends, family or neighbors who may be most vulnerable to the extreme cold,” she said.
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