Extreme cold to affect most of Ohio this weekend

OHIO — The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Watch for much Ohio.

Just some of the communities affected include the counties of Lucas, Wood, Ottawa, Sandusky, Erie, Lorain, Cuyahoga, Lake, Geauga, Ashtabula, Hancock, Seneca, Huron, Medina, Summit, Portage, Trumbull, Wyandot, Crawford, Richland, Ashland, Wayne, Stark, Mahoning, Marion, Morrow, Holmes, and Knox.

The watch is in effect from late Sunday night through Wednesday morning, with dangerously cold wind chills as low as -25°F possible.

Key Impacts:

• Frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.
• The prolonged cold may cause frozen pipes, dead car batteries, and an increased risk of structure fires.
• Improper use of heating sources could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Precautionary Measures:

• Dress in layers, including a hat, face mask, and gloves if going outside.
• Prevent frozen pipes by wrapping them, draining them, or allowing them to drip slowly.
• Keep pets indoors as much as possible.
• Check on older family members, friends, and neighbors regularly.
• Use heaters safely and never operate generators or grills indoors.

Sub-zero wind chills could persist into Wednesday night, further extending the risk of cold-related hazards.

Residents are urged to monitor weather updates and take necessary precautions to stay safe.

Your latest forecast may be viewed at weather.gov.