MAYVILLE, NY – With wind chills expected to drop as low as 20 degrees below zero through Wednesday, January 22, 2025, residents are strongly urged to take precautions to stay safe, avoid frostbite, and protect themselves from life-threatening conditions.
“This unprecedented cold poses serious risks to the safety of our community," said County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. “We are taking every necessary step to ensure the protection of our residents, particularly our most vulnerable populations. Please limit outdoor exposure and check on family and neighbors who may need assistance.”
Officials advise residents to take the following precautions to stay safe during extreme cold:
- Cover Exposed Skin: Frostbite can occur in as little as 30 minutes when wind chills drop to 15 below zero or colder. To protect yourself, ensure all exposed skin is covered before heading outside. Use scarves, masks, or balaclavas to shield your face and neck, and make sure gloves, hats, and thick socks are part of your cold-weather attire.
- Avoid Prolonged Outdoor Activities: If you must go outside, limit the time you spend exposed to the cold and take frequent breaks in a warm environment. Activities such as shoveling snow or walking long distances can increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Watch for early signs of frostbite, such as redness, numbness, or tingling, and return indoors immediately if you notice these symptoms. Hypothermia signs, including uncontrollable shivering or confusion, require immediate medical attention.
- Check on Vulnerable Populations: Older adults, young children, and those with medical conditions are at greater risk during extreme cold. Ensure they have adequate heating, warm clothing, and access to food and water. Check in regularly to confirm their safety, and offer assistance if needed. If you’re unable to help directly, contact local agencies for support to ensure no one is left vulnerable to the dangerous conditions.
- Protect Your Pets & Livestock: Bring pets and livestock indoors during extreme cold to keep them safe and warm. Prolonged exposure to icy surfaces can result in frostbite on paws, so limit their time outside and provide protective gear such as booties when necessary. After outdoor activities, check for signs of irritation or injury, including cracked pads or redness, and clean their paws to remove ice, salt, or chemicals.
Wind chill is a measure of how cold it feels when wind is factored in with the air temperature. The lower the wind chill, the quicker frostbite can set in.
"These extreme temperatures can cause frostbite on exposed skin within 30 minutes and increase the risk of hypothermia," warned Chautauqua County Public Health Director Lacey Wilson. "Residents should stay indoors whenever possible, dress in layers if they must go outside, and seek medical attention if signs of frostbite or hypothermia occur."
Supporting the county’s most vulnerable populations is especially critical during extreme weather events, including older adults.
“This extreme cold makes it dangerous for everyone, especially older adults,” said Dana Corwin, Director of the Office for Aging Services. “Please take the time to check in on seniors in your community. Offer to help with essential outdoor tasks, like snow removal or errands, to minimize their exposure to these hazardous conditions.”
As part of this emergency declaration, the county’s Code Blue initiative is in effect to protect individuals experiencing homelessness from life-threatening conditions. Code Blue ensures access to safe, warm shelters for anyone exposed to the dangers of freezing temperatures.
“When the temperature drops to dangerous levels, Code Blue shelters are here to provide a safe, warm place for those who need it. Prolonged exposure to the cold can be life-threatening, and staying warm isn’t just important—it’s essential. If you or anyone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. Our community is ready to support you, and no one should have to face the cold alone,” explained Carmelo Hernandez, Director of Mental Hygiene and Social Services.
In Chautauqua County, this initiative involves collaboration between local agencies, warming centers, and law enforcement to provide immediate assistance to those in need. For more information on Code Blue, visit chqgov.com/CodeBlue. Currently, 16 individuals are utilizing the overnight Code Blue shelters in Chautauqua County.
As temperatures drop, the risk of home fires increases due to the use of space heaters, fireplaces, and other heating devices. To stay safe, ensure heaters are placed at least three feet away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended. Avoid overloading electrical outlets and check that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. Use fireplaces responsibly by keeping chimneys clean and extinguishing fires completely before leaving or going to bed. For added safety, keep a fire extinguisher accessible and have a family escape plan in place.
“During extreme cold, staying warm is essential, but fire safety must not be overlooked,” said Noel M. Guttman, Chautauqua County Emergency Services Coordinator. “Make sure space heaters are kept at least three feet away from flammable materials and are never left unattended. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working. These precautions are simple but can save lives while you protect yourself from the dangers of the cold.”
In addition to the cold, the National Weather Service in Buffalo (NWS) has issued a Lake Effect Snow Warning for Chautauqua County, with the most significant impacts expected in the northern half of the county. Snowfall totals are projected to reach 10 to 20 inches in areas experiencing persistent lake effect snow bands. Winds gusting up to 35 mph will contribute to localized blowing and drifting snow, further reducing visibility and complicating travel.
Be prepared with emergency supplies if you get stuck in the snow. At a minimum, carry a blanket, flashlight, non-perishable food and water, a first aid kit, and a fully charged phone. A shovel, sand or traction mats, and jumper cables are also essential for getting your vehicle moving. Keep your gas tank at least half full, and consider having a portable phone charger or battery-powered radio for weather updates.
This snow event, combined with dangerous wind chills reaching as low as 20 degrees below zero, presents a significant safety concern. Residents are encouraged to monitor the latest NWS weather forecasts and check local travel advisories. Stay connected with Chautauqua County updates by following us on social media or visiting chqgov.com/wx.
