The National Weather Service office in Jackson has issued an Extreme Cold Warning that will remain in effect from 11 p.m. Friday through 6 p.m. Saturday, followed by a Cold Weather Advisory lasting from 6 p.m. Saturday until noon Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service, dangerously cold wind chills as low as 0 degrees are expected during the warning period, with some areas potentially seeing wind chills 2 degrees below zero. During the advisory period, wind chills could still dip as low as 5 degrees above zero.
Overnight low temperatures are expected to fall to around 15 degrees Friday night, with 10 to 15 degrees possible Saturday night.
The warning covers a wide region, including central, north, south, east, and west Mississippi, as well as portions of northeast Louisiana and southeast Arkansas, according to the National Weather Service in Jackson.
Officials warn that the prolonged period of freezing temperatures could lead to ruptured water pipes, frostbite, and hypothermia, particularly for anyone exposed to the cold without proper protection. The extreme cold is expected to worsen conditions in areas still dealing with power outages and lingering snow and ice from a previous ice storm.
Strong, gusty winds of 30 to 40 mph are also expected, which could drive wind chills even lower and further complicate ongoing power restoration efforts.
The National Weather Service urges residents to take precautions, including dressing in layers, wearing hats, gloves, and face coverings when outdoors, and using caution while traveling. Residents are advised to protect pipes by wrapping them or allowing faucets to drip, drain sprinkler systems, and keep pets indoors whenever possible.
Officials also recommend checking frequently on elderly family members, friends, and neighbors, and to ensure portable heaters are used safely. Generators and grills should never be used indoors.
Residents are encouraged to monitor the latest forecasts and warnings from the National Weather Service for updates as conditions evolve.
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