Dangerously Cold Temperatures Will Freeze Tri-State

Bring pets inside. Let your faucets drip. Conserve electricity where you can.

File photo

(Lawrenceburg, Ind.) - With record breaking cold temperatures expecting to hit this week, electric companies are advising citizens to start preparing now.

Wind chills as low as 30 below are expected for the tri-state on Wednesday as winds gust near 30 MPH, according to the National Weather Service.  Such cold winds chills can cause frostbite to exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.  

Overnight temperatures will dip to 0. A Wind Chill Warning will be in effect form 4:00 a.m. through 7:00 p.m. Wednesday as the high only gets to 5. Overnight temps will fall to -4, when a Wind Chill Advisory starts at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday continuing through 1:00 p.m. Thursday.

Any animals remaining outside could be in serious danger. Pet and animal owners are advised to bring pets inside, or make sure they have a warm place to stay.

Some organizations are already announcing changes or cancellations for Wednesday. Schools could be delayed or closed due to the arctic air. Local closings and cancelations are listed here.

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security says the arctic blast that is expected to start Tuesday night and continue into Wednesday could be the coldest system to move through in years. These frigid temperatures can present many challenges and dangers to Hoosiers.

IDHS has put out tips on how to protect yourself in this cold weather. The greatest way to protect yourself is to stay indoors, but if you must leave the house for any reason it is advised to dress in layers. Also, make sure that you check all road conditions before you leave your home, and pack a winter car kit including blankets, extra clothing, phone chargers, and first aid kits.

Indiana 211 is also tracking warming centers as counties are preparing for the polar vortex.

Citizens and local officials are asked to report warming centers in their area to Indiana 211. Citizens looking for warming centers can call 2-1-1 or visit the website for more information.

IDHS also advises to protect your home by insulating water pipes or maintaining a slow drip through faucets, also make sure to disconnect exterior water hoses.

Duke Energy has also given information on how to help prevent power outages.

With furnaces running at a higher amount Duke Energy says that customers can help make sure that there are fewer power outages by switching off as many lights, electronics, and appliances- including heating systems- as possible. Doing so can reduce the likelihood of circuit overloads when the power is restored.

Southeastern Indiana REMC is asking citizens to conserve electric where they can. A Critical Peak Load Conservation event has been scheduled for Wednesday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. due to the extremely cold temperatures.