WESTOVER, Ala. (WIAT) -- Dangerously cold weather is coming to Alabama in the following days, with some counties forecasted with a wind chill as low as zero degrees.
When temperatures drop as low as they will this week, it can be dangerous to be outside, according to the Shelby County Emergency Management Agency.
The Supervisor of the Agency says the best way to stay safe is to stay inside, but if you have to get outside, layering up is crucial.
“The more you can cover exposed skin the better,” saidn Shelby County Emergency Management supervisor Micheal Asdel.
Asdel says his concern this week is making sure everyone stays warm and healthy.
“Pipes, pets and people is what we like to say. Make sure you are bringing your pets inside, make sure you are letting that water drip and covering up your outside coverings,” Asdel added.
The wind chill is expected to drop temperatures into the single digits across central Alabama, which the Westover Fire Department says can lead to frostbite. Doctors from UAB say frostbite can usually be spotted by red or waxy skin. Lt. Patrick Bennett of the Westover Fire Department says that, when warming up, it’s best to do it slowly.
“It's generally not going to be a call 911 situation. Normally you can do what’s called passive rewarming. Covering it, warming it. You do not want to do active rewarming when you are out in the cold, putting hot water on it, things like that,” Bennett explained.
The Shelby County EMA is urging people to stay off the roads and indoors over the next few days.
“If you don’t have to go anywhere, don’t go anywhere,” said Asdel.
Stay with CBS 42 throughout the week as we’ll continue to follow this cold and bring you the latest from experts on air and online.