Southwest Kansas residents are waking up to one of the season’s chilliest mornings, with hazardous wind chills of -18°F or lower holding the area in their icy grip. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Cold Weather Advisory, advising that exposed skin can freeze in less than 30 minutes under these extreme wind chill conditions.
For people venturing outdoors, the cold isn‘t merely unpleasant—it‘s actually painful. The freezing wind slices right through clothing, making it seem far colder than the thermometer indicates. Regions such as Garden City, Dodge City, and Liberal are experiencing the brunt of it, with icy blasts blowing through open terrain and making sidewalks and roads slippery obstacles.
Bone-Chilling Cold Disrupts Daily Life
The bitter temperatures are making daily tasks a chore. Doing errands, walking the dog, or even getting into a cold car seems like an endurance test. Schools and businesses are keeping a close watch, with potential delays or closings pending how things turn out.
Streets are particularly hazardous, with black ice developing at night so morning drives can be tricky. Motorists are being asked to take it slow, leave sometimes, and watch out on overpasses and bridges, where ice accumulates quickest.
A Battle Against the Cold—For People, Pets, and Homes
At temperatures this cold, staying warm is not about comfort—it‘s about survival. Residents are being advised by experts to bundle up in insulated jackets, gloves, hats, and scarves when venturing out. Even the briefest exposure without protection will leave fingers and ears numb within minutes.
Pets and livestock are also in danger. Animal experts caution that if it‘s too cold for you, it‘s too cold for them. Owners of pets are encouraged to take animals inside or, at least, offer warm, insulated shelter with fresh (unfrozen) water.
The bitter cold is also causing havoc on plumbing and heating systems. Frozen pipes are already plaguing many residents, which can burst and result in costly damage. To avoid problems, officials advise keeping faucets dripping slightly and opening cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around the plumbing.
How Long Will This Deep Freeze Last?
Though Wednesday afternoon is forecast to see a slight improvement, another cold snap could strike by the weekend, so the area isn‘t quite out of the woods yet. Meteorologists are keeping a close eye on things, cautioning that temperatures may stay below freezing for a few more days.
Officials are reminding residents to have winter emergency kits ready, with additional blankets, non-perishable food, and alternative heat sources in the event of a power outage.
Looking Out for Those Most Vulnerable
While Southwest Kansas fights this deep freeze, neighbors are urged to check on elderly neighbors, friends, and those who do not have adequate heating. There are many warming shelters available for those in need, a warm place to get away from the harsh cold.
Parents are also being reminded to clothe children in layers, as young children lose body heat considerably more quickly than adults. Even a short outing can be perilous if they‘re not properly bundled up.
The Bottom Line
As hazardous wind chills persist, the priority is to be safe, be warm, and be out of the elements as little as possible. If you don‘t absolutely need to venture outside, remain indoors. Should you need to venture out, wrap yourself up as if your life hangs in the balance—because in this cold, it well may.