by New York City, NY – New Yorkers are bracing for dangerously cold conditions Friday as Arctic air pushes wind chills to as low as 15 degrees below zero, creating a serious risk of frostbite within minutes. Officials warn that exposed skin could be injured in as little as 15 minutes as the city endures its coldest stretch in years.
The brutal cold arrived as residents woke to temperatures near 10 degrees, with wind chills making much of the city feel between minus-5 and minus-10, according to the National Weather Service.
Arctic Air Brings Dangerous Wind Chills
Meteorologists say the combination of frigid temperatures and strong winds is driving the extreme conditions across the five boroughs. The National Weather Service warned that frostbite can occur on exposed skin in 15 to 30 minutes when wind chills fall this low, especially on the face, hands, and feet.
Biting north wind gusts of up to 45 miles per hour are expected to continue pounding the region, worsening the cold and increasing the danger for anyone spending time outdoors.
While the cold is severe, forecasters say the city is unlikely to see a repeat of last week’s heavy snowfall. Less than one inch of snow is now expected across the tri-state area, with small accumulations mainly forecast for eastern Long Island and southeastern Connecticut, according to the National Weather Service.
City Endures Longest Subfreezing Stretch in Years
New York City is shivering through what experts say may be its longest stretch of subfreezing temperatures in eight years. The city is forecast to experience 12 consecutive days with daytime highs below freezing, marking the most prolonged cold snap since a 14-day stretch in January 2018, according to AccuWeather.
Such extended cold places additional strain on infrastructure, public health systems, and vulnerable populations, particularly as overnight lows remain well below normal.
Health Officials Warn of Frostbite and Hypothermia Risks
City officials are urging residents to take the cold seriously and limit outdoor exposure whenever possible. Frostbite and hypothermia remain the primary concerns during extreme cold events, particularly when high winds accelerate heat loss from the body.
Officials warn that older adults, infants, and individuals with chronic cardiovascular conditions face a heightened risk during prolonged cold spells. People with disabilities, those experiencing substance use issues, and individuals without reliable access to heat are also especially vulnerable.
Even healthy adults can be affected quickly if they are not properly dressed or if they remain outdoors for extended periods.
Officials Urge Residents to Look Out for One Another
City leaders are calling on New Yorkers to dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and check in on neighbors, friends, and relatives during the frigid conditions. Officials specifically emphasized the importance of monitoring the well-being of older adults and people with disabilities, who may struggle to maintain adequate warmth or seek help.
Residents are also reminded to bring pets indoors, avoid unnecessary travel during peak cold hours, and be cautious when using space heaters or alternative heating sources to prevent fires and carbon monoxide exposure.
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