BOSTON — An Extreme Cold Warning has been issued for parts of western Massachusetts, with dangerously low wind chills expected from Friday evening through early Saturday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service.
Forecasters said wind chills on the eastern slopes of the Berkshire Mountains could drop to 25 degrees below zero beginning around 7 p.m. Friday and lasting until 1 p.m. Saturday. Areas affected include western Franklin, western Hampshire and western Hampden counties, including communities such as Charlemont, Chesterfield and Blandford.
The extreme cold could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes, with an increased risk of hypothermia if proper precautions are not taken.
Officials urged residents to limit time outdoors, dress in multiple layers, and wear hats, gloves and face coverings when outside.
Temperatures are expected to gradually moderate later Saturday, but cold conditions will persist across the region.
