Intense Arctic Cold Front & 20 Below Zero Wind Chills Expected For NYC This Weekend — Here’s How To Stay Safe

An intense arctic cold front is heading straight for NYC this weekend–and officials are warning of dangerous wind chills that could feel as low as 20 below zero . The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Warning from Saturday, February 7 at 10 am through Sunday, February 8 at 1 pm. Forecasters say the bitter cold could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as five minutes, with a real risk of hypothermia if precautions aren’t taken. The safest plan right now is simple: stay warm, stay inside when possible, and check on your neighbors. Here’s how New Yorkers can stay safe: 🔥 Warming Centers are Open Across NYC ------------------------------------- Due to the extreme cold, warming centers–including indoor spaces and buses –are open citywide to anyone in need, with either overnight or 24-hour access. New Yorkers can find a full list of warming centers by borough [online](https://portal.311.nyc.gov/article/?kanumber=KA-03702) or call 311 for locations. 🏠 Shelter & Emergency Outreach Efforts -------------------------------------- City agencies are increasing cold-weather response efforts, including: * Hospitals limiting overnight discharges to keep patients safe * Extra outreach staff and volunteers canvassing streets to check on vulnerable residents * Paid overtime coverage to expand emergency outreach * Involuntary removals used only as a last resort 🚨 Preparedness Actions & Who’s Most At Risk ------------------------------------------- The National Weather Service says older adults, infants, people with chronic cardiovascular or lung conditions, people using alcohol or drugs, and people with cognitive disabilities (like dementia, serious mental illness or developmental disability) face higher danger. They’re urging New Yorkers to do the following: * Dress in layers and cover all exposed skin if you must go outside * Wear hats, gloves, scarves, and insulated footwear * Check on neighbors, friends, and relatives–especially older adults and people with disabilities * Call 911 if you suspect frostbite or hypothermia * If power is lost and you rely on life-sustaining equipment, dial 911 immediately * Keep space heaters at least 3 feet from flammable objects * Never use a stove, oven, or grill to heat your home * Call 311 to request assistance for someone experiencing homelessness 🔥 NYC Indoor Heat Requirements ------------------------------ From October 1 through May 31, landlords must maintain legal indoor heat levels: * At least 68°F during the day (6 am – 10 pm) when outside temps fall below 55°F * At least 62°F overnight (10 pm – 6 am), regardless of outside temperature Call 311 to report heating violations or request assistance with heating costs. You can stay updated through the National Weather Service as conditions develop. Officials are urging New Yorkers to take this cold seriously–even short exposure can be dangerous. Stay safe, stay warm, and check in on one another this weekend. ❤️ Source: https://secretnyc.co/how-new-yorkers-stay-safe-this-weekend-arctic-cold-front/