CLEVELAND, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—Residents across North Central, Northeast, and Northwest Ohio are being urged to take precautions as an arctic air mass moves into the region, bringing life-threatening wind chills early Saturday morning.
The National Weather Service has issued a Cold Weather Advisory effective from 1 a.m. to noon EST Saturday. Forecasters expect wind chill values to range between 15 and 24 degrees below zero. In some localized areas, wind chills could drop as low as 25 degrees below zero.
Meteorologists warn that such extreme cold can cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. The advisory covers several counties in the region, including Crawford, Marion, Morrow, and Richland.
“The combination of low temperatures and steady winds will create a dangerous environment for anyone outdoors for extended periods,” the National Weather Service stated.
Additional cold weather advisories may be necessary for Saturday night into Sunday morning, as wind chill values are projected to remain near 15 below zero for parts of Northeast Ohio.
Officials recommend that anyone traveling or working outdoors wear multiple layers of loose-fitting clothing, including a hat, gloves, and a face mask to protect the lungs from the frigid air. Residents are also encouraged to check on elderly neighbors and ensure outdoor pets have adequate shelter and unfrozen water.