Bitter cold forces groups to cancel weekend events
Doctors say while it's been cold, the drop in temperatures this weekend can be dangerous and sometimes life threatening.
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Some organizations made the decision to cancel events due to the bitter cold temperatures expected across the Hudson Valley this weekend.
Doctors are urging people to take precautions.
"If it's going to be freezing, I'm just going to stay in and, thank God, I have some place to live," said Yonkers resident Lydia Freeman.
News 12 meteorologists say some areas could feel temperatures ranging from 15 to 35 degrees below zero.
"I like it cold but not this cold," said Yonkers resident Marianna Rivera.
Doctors say while it's been cold, the drop in temperatures this weekend can be dangerous and sometimes life threatening.
"It's really important that people dress in layers. They cover their skin, cover those exposed areas, trap heat, and limit time outdoors. If you can avoid going outside altogether, that's probably preferable," said Dr. Stephanie Widmer, an emergency medicine physician at Northern Westchester Hospital.
Dr. Widmer says if you have to be outside, it's important you pay attention to your mind and your body.
"If someone you're with seems off, or you feel off if you're in these extreme temperatures, if you don't feel mentally like yourself, that is a huge medical red flag," said Dr. Widmer.
Several events scheduled for this weekend have been canceled due to the weather, like Eagle Fest and Swim Across America Polar Plunge.
As of Friday, Gullotta House Polar Plunge is still on. According to organizers, both events will happen without going into the Hudson River. Organizers tell News 12 that the fire department will spray water on participants and blankets will be immediately available. Medics will also be on scene. These are happening at Kingsland Point Park and Louis Engle Park.
"My recommendation would be to avoid it all together," said Dr. Widmer.
For those attending any Super Bowl watch parties, Dr. Widmer says if you drink too much, you may fail to recognize the symptoms of extreme cold exposure.
