Dangerously cold temps remain this morning

Forecasters say that dangerously cold temperatures remain in the forecast today as we continue to see the coldest temperatures so far this season.

A cold weather advisory remains in effect until 10 this morning.

Forecasters with the National Weather Service say that dangerously cold wind chills could make it feel like 19 below zero.

With this cold, you could get frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.

With the extreme cold, emergency officials are warning of the dangers to vulnerable people in the community.

According to the Bartholomew County Emergency Management Department, this severe cold can be especially dangerous for older adults, young children, those with medical conditions, those without adequate heating, and people who are homeless. They are all at enhanced risk of hypothermia, frostbite and breathing difficulties.

They urge you to check up on your neighbors, friends and family and to offer support when you can.

To help protect yourself and others, you should make sure to dress in layers of loose clothing, covering all exposed skin, limit your time outdoors and consume hot foods and warm drinks. You should avoid caffeine and alcohol which will make you lose body heat more quickly.

Local officials are warning of slick roads this morning. Orange travel watches have been issued in Bartholomew, Decatur, Jackson and Jennings counties.

Under a travel watch, conditions are said to be threatening to the safety of the public. Only essential travel, such as to and from work or in emergency situations, is recommended, and emergency action plans should be implemented by businesses, schools, government agencies and other organizations.

Brown, Johnson and Shelby counties in our area are under yellow travel advisories. That is the lowest level of travel condition and means that travel could be restricted in some spots due to hazardous conditions.