Burlington to experience severe windchill, UVM recommends students stay inside if possible

Burlington will experience the coldest temperatures of the season on Friday and Saturday,  which includes dangerously cold wind chills, according to a Jan. 14 CatAlert sent by the UVM Emergency Operations Group. 

The National Weather Service predicts wind chills will reach 30-45 degrees below zero, according to the email. The Burlington Vermont Weather Warnings issued a wind chill warning in effect from 7 p.m. Friday to 4 p.m. Saturday.

The CatAlert includes eight tips on staying safe during the next two days that they encourage the UVM community to follow.

1. Stay indoors as much as possible. Skin exposed for as little as 10 minutes can cause frostbite.
2. Watch for changes in scheduled activities as outdoor events may be canceled.
3. If you must work outside, take frequent breaks to warm up.
4. If you are anticipating a skiing or snowboarding day on Saturday, prepare appropriately.
5. Dress appropriately. We recommend clothing in layers to capture the heat. As body heat escapes rapidly through an uncovered head, wear a hat to keep this from happening. Students should also wear gloves or mittens, a scarf or other face protection and warm boots. 
6. If you’re outdoors during either daytime or nighttime hours during this period of extreme cold be aware of and look out for one another.
7. Keep windows closed as nearby pipes can freeze quickly in this weather.
8. Closely monitor future weather forecasts on the NWS website, including the chance for significant snow on Monday.