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Dangerously Cold Temperatures Expected Across Michigan
Ottawa County Emergency Management is monitoring an incoming arctic cold front expected to impact Ottawa County beginning Thursday night and continuing through the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service, daytime temperatures will struggle to reach zero degrees, with overnight lows well below zero. Strong winds are expected to create dangerous wind chills between 15 and 25 degrees below zero from early Friday through Saturday. Periods of lake effect snow may also reduce visibility and create hazardous travel conditions across the county.
These conditions significantly increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia within minutes and can make travel dangerous. Residents are urged to prepare now and take this forecast seriously.
Cold Weather Safety Tips for Ottawa County Residents
• Limit time outdoors. If you must go outside, wear several layers of warm clothing and watch closely for signs of cold related illness.
Frostbite symptoms include numbness, loss of feeling, and pale or waxy skin, especially on the face, fingers, and toes.
Hypothermia symptoms include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, slurred speech, or drowsiness.
• Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Use generators and grills outdoors only and keep them away from windows and doors. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home.
• Avoid overexertion. Activities like shoveling snow can place extra strain on your heart. Take frequent breaks and avoid sudden bursts of activity.
• Check on others. Older adults, young children, and pets are especially vulnerable during extreme cold. Check on neighbors and loved ones regularly and keep pets indoors.
• Prepare for travel emergencies. If travel is necessary, keep your gas tank full and carry an emergency kit with warm clothing, blankets, gloves, hats, and a phone charger. If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle and wait for help rather than attempting to walk in the cold.
Ottawa County Emergency Management will continue to monitor conditions and share updates as needed. For additional preparedness information, visit www.michigan.gov/miready.
Stay safe and take precautions as this dangerous cold moves into our area.
Ottawa County Emergency Management
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