Health officials are warning people about the dangerous cold weather that is coming to the Hudson Valley.

The arctic air will bring stiff winds, and temperatures will be dropping into the single digits while wind chills could hit -20 overnight.

People exposed to extreme cold are susceptible to frostbite in a matter of minutes.

At such arctic temperatures, frostbite can occur to exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes. Anyone outdoors for any length of time could experience serious health consequences. Areas most prone to frostbite are uncovered skin and the extremities, such as hands and feet. Hypothermia is another threat during extreme cold. Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce.

Residents should be encouraged to remain in heated indoor spaces and plan to be outside as little as possible on Friday and Saturday.

Also, the cold weather can be as dangerous for pets, as it is for humans. Pets have a more difficult time regulating their body temperatures and may be more susceptible to problems from extreme temperatures.