Subzero

Subzero - Feb 3, 2023
Amherst, MA
Photo by S. Vardatira

"There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes."

Thought I'd challenge that saying today, but, um, actually.... best to dress in layers and cover up everything. When a wind gust finds bare skin, the cold is piercing. (Though I have to admit that my long-time, fave LL Bean bomber hat kept my head perfectly warm. When it's this cold outside, I could care less about "looking pretty" - if it keeps me warm, I am all in!)

Right now, of course, at least the sun is shining. Not so tonight, when temps drop to record-breaking lows. Indeed, Hampshire County and other areas across Massachusetts are currently under a WIND CHILL WARNING through 10 AM SATURDAY. Expect dangerously cold wind chills as low as -40 F. And, in case you were wondering, wind chillls that low can cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.

Temps this cold can also freeze pipes, of course. If your home is at risk, here's some basic guidance about how to protect your pipes tonight:

1. If you haven't already done so, shut off outdoor water sources.
2. Locate your internal water shut off valve and make sure you know how to use it. (If your pipes burst, you will need to turn off your water.)
3. Keep heat at 55 degrees or higher and close entries to unheated spaces to prevent frozen pipes.
4. If you haven't already done so, insulate exposed pipes using blankets, Styrofoam or swimming pool water noodles. This could include pipes in unheated areas like attics, garages or kitchen cabinets.
5. Tonight, close all doors and windows, including garage doors.
6. Set your faucets to a slow drip for interior pipes to keep water flowing and prevent freezing pipes.
7. Leave cabinet doors open under sinks to help keep pipes at a warmer temperature.
8. Regularly check water sources where frozen pipes are more likely, like around sinks and bathrooms.
9. If you lose power: run your faucets at a fast drip until you get a temporary source of heat going. If the power will be out for an extended period of time, shut off the main water valve and then open and run the water until the pipes are empty.

Stay safe, everyone, and if you have to go out, make sure you have really good clothes for it. Better yet, find a good book, a fireplace (or the equivalent), and hunker down for a cozy evening inside!