Residents of Clarke County are waking up to bitter cold temperatures and dangerously low wind chills, as an Arctic air mass pushes through the region. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Warning, warning that wind chills could make it feel as cold as -12°F (-24°C) in some areas. Officials are urging residents to stay indoors, limit exposure to the cold, and take precautions to protect against frostbite and hypothermia. With winds gusting up to 30 mph, the real feel temperatures will be significantly colder than the actual thermometer reading.
How Cold Will It Get? Clarke County’s Weather Breakdown
As of Wednesday morning, temperatures in Clarke County have already dropped to 15°F (-10°C), but strong winds are making it feel much colder. Today’s high won’t climb above 31°F (-1°C), keeping much of the area locked in freezing conditions. By tonight, temperatures will plummet to a dangerous low of 14°F (-10°C), with wind chills dropping even further. Forecasters warn that exposed skin could develop frostbite in less than 30 minutes under these conditions. The cold snap is expected to continue through the rest of the week, but slight relief is on the way.
Here’s what to expect in the coming days:
- Thursday, February 20 – Mostly sunny, but still bitterly cold. High: 35°F (2°C), Low: 24°F (-5°C).
- Friday, February 21 – Still cold, but warming slightly. High: 35°F (1°C), Low: 28°F (-2°C).
- Saturday, February 22 – A break from the freezing air! High: 49°F (9°C), Low: 36°F (2°C).
- Sunday, February 23 – Mild temperatures return. High: 61°F (16°C), Low: 46°F (8°C).
How to Stay Safe During Clarke County’s Extreme Cold
With subzero wind chills and dangerous cold, here’s how to protect yourself and your family:
- Avoid Going Outside: If you must go out, wear multiple layers, gloves, and a face covering. Any exposed skin can freeze in minutes in these conditions.
- Prepare for Power Outages: Strong winds could strain the power grid. Have flashlights, extra blankets, and portable chargers ready in case of an emergency.
- Protect Pipes from Freezing: Keep faucets dripping slightly to prevent pipes from bursting. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate.
- Check on Vulnerable Individuals: The elderly, young children, and those with medical conditions are at higher risk during extreme cold. Make sure they have adequate heat and winter supplies.
- Bring Pets Indoors: If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them. Make sure pets have a warm, dry place to stay inside.
With bone-chilling temperatures, strong winds, and frostbite risks, this is not just another winter cold snap—this is an extreme weather event that requires serious preparation. Officials are stressing that the next 48 hours will be critical and those who fail to take precautions could face serious consequences. Stay indoors, stay warm, and stay safe.