Dangerous cold continues to grip the region this morning, with a Cold Weather Advisory remaining in effect until 10 a.m. Eastern for portions of central New York and northeast Pennsylvania.
Forecasters say wind chills could dip as low as 20 to 25 degrees below zero, creating conditions that can be hazardous in a short amount of time. At those temperatures, frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.
The National Weather Service is urging residents to take extra precautions if they need to be outdoors. That includes dressing in layers and wearing hats and gloves to limit exposure to the cold. Travelers are advised to use caution, especially during the early morning hours.
Officials also recommend bringing pets indoors and checking in on older family members, friends, and neighbors, who may be more vulnerable to the cold.
Safety experts warn against improper heating practices during extreme cold. Portable heaters should be used correctly, and generators or grills should never be operated indoors, as they can produce deadly carbon monoxide.
Temperatures are expected to slowly improve later this morning.