YAKIMA, Wash. – Extremely cold temperatures are expected this weekend, made even worse by strong winds causing wind chill, and hypothermia and frostbite are very real possibilities after prolonged exposure, according to the Yakima Health District.
YHD says hypothermia is when the human body starts losing heat faster than its produced. Warning signs for include:
ShiveringExhaustionConfusionFumbling handsMemory lossSlurred speechDrowsinessBright red, cold skin (seen in babies)Very low energy (seen in babies)
If someone is showing symptoms for hypothermia, YHD recommends taking their temperature. If it reads below 95 degrees Fahrenheit, get medical attention immediately.
Frostbite is an injury caused by freezing which leads to loss of feeling and color in areas. Extremities like noses, ears, cheeks, chins, fingers and toes are the most affected areas.
YHD says frostbite can permanently damage the body, with severe cases leading to amputation.
Signs of frostbite include:
White or grayish-yellow skinSkin that feels firm or waxyNumbness
The YHD says that in many cases, a person with frostbite may not know they have frostbite until someone else points it out. Seek medical care if you spot signs of frostbite.
To protect yourself hypothermia, frostbite and any other complications with cold, YHD recommends:
Staying indoors during extremely cold weatherHeating your home safelyWinterizing your home by checking heating systems and sealing cracksDressing warmly with hats, scarves, gloves, socks and several layers of dry and loose-fitting clothingStaying up to date on weather conditions, advisories and warnings
