Dangerously Cold Wind Chills Grip North Central Ohio

Frostbite risk in just 30 minutes as temperatures plummet

Feb. 6, 2026 at 4:39pm

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A Cold Weather Advisory is in effect for parts of North Central and Northeast Ohio on Saturday, with wind chills expected to drop as low as 24 degrees below zero. Forecasters warn the extreme cold can cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes, and officials are urging residents to take precautions if traveling or working outdoors.

Why it matters

The dangerously low wind chills pose a serious threat to public safety, as prolonged exposure to such frigid temperatures can lead to frostbite and hypothermia. This advisory covers a wide swath of the region, impacting many communities and requiring coordinated efforts to ensure residents stay safe.

The details

The National Weather Service has issued a Cold Weather Advisory effective from 1 a.m. to noon EST Saturday. Forecasters expect wind chill values to range between 15 and 24 degrees below zero, with some localized areas potentially dropping as low as 25 degrees below zero. Meteorologists warn that such extreme cold can cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.

  • The Cold Weather Advisory is in effect from 1 a.m. to noon EST on Saturday, February 6, 2026.
  • Additional cold weather advisories may be necessary for Saturday night into Sunday morning, as wind chill values are projected to remain near 15 below zero for parts of Northeast Ohio.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing advisories and warnings to protect public safety.

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What they’re saying

“The combination of low temperatures and steady winds will create a dangerous environment for anyone outdoors for extended periods.”

— National Weather Service (crawfordcountynow.com)

What’s next

Officials recommend that anyone traveling or working outdoors wear multiple layers of loose-fitting clothing, including a hat, gloves, and a face mask to protect the lungs from the frigid air. Residents are also encouraged to check on elderly neighbors and ensure outdoor pets have adequate shelter and unfrozen water.

The takeaway

This Cold Weather Advisory highlights the importance of being prepared for extreme winter conditions and taking necessary precautions to protect oneself and others from the dangers of dangerously low wind chills. Staying informed and heeding official warnings can help save lives during these severe weather events.