In New York City, the mercury is plunging, and so are the chances of enjoying a stroll outside this week. CBS New York has the grim forecast, warning residents of the Tri-State Area to brace for wind chills sinking to sub-zero levels and a consistent freeze throughout the day.
With temperatures nose-diving well into the frigid zone, staying warm is more than a comfort issue—it's a health one. According to a CBS New York interview with Dr. Alina Metina, an emergency physician at Hackensack University Medical Center, the current cold snap could have severe consequences, especially for the young and elderly. Dr. Metina emphasized the risk of frostbite and hypothermia, describing frostbite as "a pale, cool extremity, like your finger, your toe," which can lead to "permanent nerve damage."
The wicked chill isn't planning on letting up either, with NBC New York reporting highs struggling to breach the 20s and lows sulking in the teens. The quick peek we might get at the 30s on Thursday offers little solace, particularly considering another blast of arctic air is expected to bulldoze through over the weekend. And yes, it's going to snow, potentially a lot. The exact totals are still up in the air, but NBC New York is forecasting "a significant snow event is on tap for the East Coast this weekend."
Dr. Metina provided some cold weather advice, stressing the importance of layers to those who must venture outside, an action residents with canines seem to be particularly bound to. "That's the only reason I'm standing in the cold right now, is because of him. He likes it," Dylan, a dog owner, told CBS New York, alluding to his husky's preference for chilly weather. Still, experts note that even cold-loving breeds should have their outdoor time curtailed when the thermometer dips below 20 degrees to prevent hypothermia.
Whether you're a courier braving the cold for work or taking your dog out for its necessary break, remember it's essential to listen to your body's signals and seek warmth immediately if skin-to-skin contact needed for restoring feeling isn't enough, as described by Dr. Metina.
