COLD WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 10 AM THURSDAY by the National Weather Service. Very cold wind chills as low as 5 to 15 degrees below zero expected in portions of north central and western Maryland, northwest and western Virginia and eastern and panhandle West Virginia until 10 AM Thursday. Cold wind chills as low as 10 below zero could result in hypothermia if precautions are not taken. Frostbite and hypothermia will occur if unprotected skin is exposed to these temperatures. Very cold temperatures and wind chills can lead to hypothermia with prolonged exposure.

The coldest conditions are expected Tuesday night, with widespread wind chills of 10 to 15 degrees below zero. Other nights, wind chills will be between 5 to 10 degrees below zero. During the daytime, wind chills are expected to only reach the upper single digits.

Use caution while traveling outside. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves. Keep pets indoors as much as possible. Make sure outdoor animals have a warm, dry shelter, food, and unfrozen water. Make frequent checks on older family, friends, and neighbors. Ensure portable heaters are used correctly. Do not use generators or grills inside.