Doctors Warn Of Frostbite Risk As Subzero Wind Chills Expected

With predicted wind chills as low as -20, spending time outside without the proper gear can be dangerous. Frostbite is a big concern and doctors said they’ve already treated some cases this week.

Dr. Tara Wilson, Hillcrest's Medical Director for their Alexander Burn Center, said in her past five years working there, she's seen one frostbite case. This week, they've seen three, so she is urging people to be ready.

Wind chills could reach -20 this weekend and next week. Being outside in those temperatures for just a little while can cause frostbite, which is tissue damage from bitter cold.

"Some cold injuries can be just as devastating as heat injuries, in loss of fingertips and toes and limbs," said Dr. Wilson.

Dr. Wilson said if you start to feel tingling or see your skin change color, go inside and warm up. She said even playing in the snow for just a little while can be dangerous in this weather.

"If you start to feel too cold, get out and pay attention to those loved ones like little ones and pets that can't speak up," said Wilson.

Cold weather prep is exactly what Paige Lofton and Hayden Elmore are doing for two-year-old Hudson, stocking up on gloves and hats at Bass Pro.

"It hits you by surprise for sure, got to keep the little guy warm," said Elmore.

Bass Pro General Manager Jeff Warren said things like gloves, warm coats, generators, and hats have been flying off the shelves.

"We have stockings, caps, toboggans, snow gloves," said Warren. "Sometimes we get the cold weather, sometimes we don't, but we try to be prepared if we do."

Father Duy Nguyen, a chaplain at Bishop Kelly High School, was there to stock up on socks and hand warmers to give to the homeless downtown, as some people stay out in the freezing temperatures.

"Hopefully it will warm their hearts a little bit," Fr. Nguyen said.

Dr. Wilson said if your skin still feels numb after trying to warm up, you need to get medical attention quickly.