Mother nature continues to challenge the State of Iowa, as the week’s massive snowfall is to be followed by several days of sub-zero temperatures. The most severe of these conditions are expected Sunday through Tuesday, where wind chills could reach between 20 and 30 degrees below zero.

With temperatures that low, frostbite can occur in as little as 15 minutes. Fingers, toes, ear lobes, or the tip of the nose are the most susceptible to frostbite. Common symptoms include loss of feeling and lack of color. Hypothermia is another threat with extreme cold, and can cause uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, and exhaustion. Anyone showing signs of frostbite or hypothermia should seek immediate medical attention.

Animals could be susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia as well. The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends keeping cats and dogs inside when the temperature falls below 32 degrees. Rock salt can be painful on a dog’s paws and equally harmful if ingested.

Bitter cold weather can also be a problem for plumbing systems. Homeowners are advised to let hot and cold water drip from a faucet at night, or open cabinet doors to allow more heat to get to pipes under a sink. These steps could prevent a pipe from freezing and/or bursting. If frozen, never try to thaw a pipe with an open flame, use a hair dryer instead.

For additional cold weather tips and information, click here.