At 3:19 a.m. on Wednesday, the National Weather Service issued an updated cold weather advisory that would remain in effect until 10 a.m. for the following areas: Lower Columbia River, Outer Southeast Portland Metro, West Central Willamette Valley, East Central Willamette Valley, Benton County Lowlands, Linn County Lowlands, Lane County Lowlands, Clackamas County Cascade Foothills, Cascade Foothills of Marion and Linn counties, and Lane County Cascade Foothills.
“Very cold temperatures as low as 20 degrees F,” the weather outlet reports. “Slightly warmer temperatures than in the past have been maintained by lower wind velocity. The coldest temperatures are found in more remote locations especially near the mouth of the Columbia River Gorge. The apparent (or “feels-like”) temperature in areas with higher wind speeds is close to 30 degrees Fahrenheit.
The meteorological service also notes that “long-term exposure to wind chill values can result in hypothermia.” “To avoid frostbite and/or hypothermia, anyone who intend to go outside should exercise common sense and dress warmly, covering any exposed skin. Avoid staying outside in damp weather as this can make it more likely that the body will cool down and become hypothermic.
Understanding cold weather alerts
Warning of cold weather: Exercise caution. When seasonably cold air temperatures or wind chill values—but not exceptionally severe ones—are anticipated or happening, a cold weather advisory is issued. When you and your loved ones go outside, make sure you cover any exposed skin and wear suitable clothing.
Warning: Extreme cold: Act now! When dangerously low air temperatures or wind chill values are predicted or already occurring, an extreme cold warning is issued. Avoid venturing outside if there is an extreme cold warning in effect. Make sure at least one other person is aware of your whereabouts, wear layers if you must go outside, and cover any exposed skin. When you reach your destination safely, update them.
Be ready for extreme cold watch. When extremely low air temperatures or wind chill values are possible, an extreme cold watch is issued. As with a warning, change your plans so that you don’t spend the coldest hours of the day outside. Update your winter survival gear and make sure your car has at least half a tank of gas left.
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