Wind Chill Advisory Issued

The National Weather Service in St. Louis has issued a Wind Chill Advisory beginning from 6 p.m. Tuesday to 1 p.m. Wednesday. Very cold wind chills as low as 20 to 25 below zero degrees Fahrenheit are expected. The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.

Very cold wind chills can be dangerous to people. Residents should avoid exposure to low temperatures for extended periods of time, especially at-risk populations, such as the elderly, those with functional needs, people with pre-existing health conditions, and small children.

The City of St. Louis Department of Health is advising residents to remember the following tips to stay safe during very cold wind chills:

• Dress in layers, both inside and outside
• Wear a hat and gloves, and try to have as little exposed skin as possible
• Know the signs of hypothermia and frostbite
• Keep homes at a minimum of 68 degrees
• Avoid using alternative heating sources because of the risk of fire and carbon monoxide
• Be sure to check on elderly neighbors, or anyone else you know who may be in need of assistance

For additional cold weather safety tips, visit the City of St. Louis Department of Health Severe Weather website at https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/government/departments/health/severe-weather.cfm.

Area seniors and people with disabilities who can't afford to pay their winter heating bills may qualify for help through Heatupstlouis.org, a regional charity serving as a safety net providing utility assistance to those in need. To qualify log on to www.heatupstlouis.org or call the automated hotline at 314-241-7668.

The City of St. Louis Animal Care and Control (ACC) also urges residents to consider the safety of pets during cold weather. Pets should not be exposed to extremely low temperatures for extended periods of time.

If kept outdoors, animals are required to have access to adequate shelter, food, and water.

Pet owners who fail to provide proper shelter and care for companion animals in extreme temperatures may be charged with cruelty to animals and prosecuted.

If an animal appears to be in distress or is unresponsive, please contact ACC immediately at (314) 657-1500. If calling after hours, please call (314) 231-1212.

For information on warming sites, you can contact the United Way of Greater St. Louis’ Information Referral line at 2-1-1 or 1-800-427-4626 (TTY 1-866-385-6525).