(Updated: 8:20 a.m.) Frigid temperatures and strong winds will combine to produce dangerously low wind chill values, the National Weather Service said in a wind chill advisory issued early this morning.
Wind chill values can reach from 18 to 23 degrees below zero, with the coldest temperatures overnight, when temperatures will dip to near zero and northwest winds of up to 30 mph will gust up to 45 mph.
The wind chill advisory is in effect from 1 o’clock this afternoon until noon tomorrow.
“The frigid conditions will be dangerous to those venturing outside,” the National Weather Service said. Prolonged exposure may cause frostbite and hypothermia, the weather service said.
The Riverhead Police Department warned residents against attempting to spend the day or night without heat.
“If you are without heat, please relocate to a relative’s, friend’s or neighbor’s home,” police said in a press release.” If you have nowhere to go or in case of an emergency dial 911 or contact the Riverhead Police Department at 631-727-4500.”
If you have pipes prone to freezing, run water at a trickle and keep cabinet doors open to prevent pipes from freezing, police said.
“Never use a stove or oven to heat your home or use an open flame to melt frozen pipes. Many house fires result from these practices.
“Check tire pressure and your car battery. Be sure your car has a winter safety kit that includes a blanket, warm clothes and gloves in case your car breaks down or becomes stranded. Always have a cellphone with you,” police said.
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