Residents are being urged to prepare for dangerously cold weather expected to move into the region this weekend.
An Arctic air mass is forecast to bring bitter temperatures and hazardous wind chills from Friday night through Sunday. The National Weather Service in Binghamton has issued warnings for much of the area, with wind chills expected to drop well below zero — cold enough for frostbite to occur quickly on exposed skin.
Light snow is possible ahead of the cold front late Friday, followed by rapidly falling temperatures. Daytime highs this weekend are expected to stay near or below zero, with overnight lows and wind chills reaching dangerous levels.
In Yates County, Keuka Advocacy Services will open a warming center at 104 Water Street in Penn Yan. The center will operate on Friday from 7 p.m. to 9 a.m. Saturday, and again from 4 p.m. Saturday through 9 a.m. Monday. For information, volunteering, or donations, contact Deaconess Connie Glover at 315-694-2070.
Schuyler County has preplanned warming shelters at several fire departments that can be opened if needed. Residents can request activation through the county’s 24/7 Dispatch Center at 607-535-8222. Schuyler County Emergency Management says it will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates through official county channels and local media.
Emergency officials are encouraging residents to limit time outdoors and dress in layers, including hats, gloves, and face coverings if they must be outside. They also recommend checking on older adults, neighbors with limited mobility, and anyone without reliable heat.
Homeowners are advised to make sure heating systems are working properly, insulate exposed pipes, and use space heaters carefully, keeping them away from flammable materials. Pet owners should bring animals indoors or provide adequate shelter.
Drivers are urged to prepare for winter travel conditions and carry emergency supplies if travel is necessary.
Officials say anyone experiencing signs of hypothermia or frostbite — such as numbness, confusion, intense shivering, or pale skin — should seek shelter immediately and call 911 if medical help is needed.
Officials stress that no one should be left out in the cold.
