NEW YORK, Dec 15 2016 — The Tri-State area is plunging into a deep freeze as bitter Arctic air and strong winds push into the region.
A wind advisory is in effect until 6 p.m. Thursday while a high wind warning in effect from 6 p.m. until 6 a.m. Friday.
Wind gusts of up to 50 mph are possible during the day Thursday and could go as high as 60 mph at night in some areas. The wind chill could be near zero for many parts of the area and approach minus 15 degrees in higher elevations such as Sussex County, New Jersey.
A few snow flurries and even a heavier snow squall with minor accumulation is possible through the area on Thursday.
“These temperatures will be dangerous,” NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Joseph Esposito said in a statement. “During this blast of arctic cold, stay indoors and if you have to go out, bundle up.”
Most Thursday morning were bundled up on their way to work.
“You just do your best and keep going,” a construction worker told WCBS 880’s Sean Adams.
“It’s cold,” another woman told 1010 WINS’ John Montone.
Warming centers are open around the city and on Long Island Thursday and Friday, CBS2’s Magdalena Doris reported.
To find a Nassau County warming center, click here. The Town of Hempstead announced it is opening additional centers. Click here for the full list.
Warming centers are also open in Newark, New Jersey Thursday at the John F. Kennedy Recreation Center. Click here for more information.
In addition, the State of Connecticut has activated its severe cold weather protocol. Gov. Dannel P. Malloy said anyone in need of shelter is urged to call 211 to find the nearest available locations.
When temperatures dip below freezing, a Code Blue is also issued across city meaning if you see a homeless person in need of shelter, you are asked to call 311 and an outreach team will be dispatched to help.
The city’s Department of Buildings is also reminding all builders, contractors, crane operators and property owners to secure their construction sites, buildings and equipment because of the high winds.
This wintry blast has been gripping the Upper Midwest. The National Weather Service said that in western Wisconsin, Thursday morning’s wind chills could get as low as minus 30.
Lake-effect snow in upstate New York shut down the Buffalo Skyway. Officials there are asking people there to stay home and avoid driving at all costs.
If using a space heater to heat your home during the bitter blast, the fire department advises not to use them with an extension cord or power strip and is reminding resident to check that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms are working.
Officials are also urging residents to check on vulnerable friends and neighbors.
Forecasters say some snow will likely hit the area on Friday night before it transitions into a wintry mix on Saturday. Slippery driving conditions are possible.
For more information, including home heating and other safety tips, click here. (CBSNewYork/AP)
