URBANA, Illinois – Dangerously cold weather will impact Champaign-Urbana this weekend.

An arctic front will push through Central Illinois on Thursday, Jan. 22, bringing extreme cold. Champaign-Urbana is expected to see wind chills of -20°F (-29°C) on Friday and -14°F (-26°C) on Saturday.

Following the arctic front, a winter storm will bring snow to the area on Saturday, Jan. 24, and Sunday, Jan. 25, with the potential for more than 4 inches of snowfall.

It is strongly advised to remain indoors this weekend, especially on Friday and Saturday, when the wind chill is lowest.

If you must leave your residence, you should:

• Wear multiple, loose-fitting layers of clothing
• Cover all exposed skin, especially your nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, and toes
• Limit time outdoors and stay dry
• Walk in groups when possible
• Tell a friend where you are going and when you expect to return
• Keep your phone charged and accessible
• Watch for icy sidewalks and roadways, and wear shoes with good traction
• If you feel numb or dizzy, go inside immediately 

Prolonged exposure to the elements is extremely dangerous and can be deadly. In these conditions, frostbite can set in in as little as 10 minutes, and hypothermia can occur within 30 minutes.

Early signs of frostbite

• Tingling or burning sensation
• Numbness
• Skin turning pale, white, or grayish
• Skin feels hard or waxy

Early signs of hypothermia

•  Intense shivering
• Slurred speech
• Clumsiness or confusion
• Extreme fatigue or drowsiness

Severe signs of hypothermia (medical emergency)

• Shivering stops
• Slow or shallow breathing
• Confusion or irrational behavior
• Loss of consciousness

If you or someone you know experiences signs of frostbite or hypothermia, get indoors immediately. If anyone exhibits severe signs of hypothermia, call 911 right away.

Winter weather is hard to predict, and the conditions can change rapidly. Remember to check the forecast regularly this weekend and sign up for severe weather notifications.