Arctic cold wave will continue across central North Carolina through the weekend... A very cold air mass over the region will bring dangerously frigid temperatures and wind chills through the weekend. Readings will be as low as 20 to 25 degrees below normal for this time of year. Highs today will only be in the upper 20s to mid 30s. Blustery winds will push wind chills down into the teens for much of the day. Lows tonight will be in the teens across central North Carolina, with wind chills in the single digits. Highs Sunday will be in the 30s to low 40s. Take steps now to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property from the extreme cold. Limit your time outside, if possible. Hypothermia can result with prolonged exposure and a lack of proper clothing. If you do go outside, wear several layers of loose fitting, warm clothing rather than one layer of heavy clothing. Mittens are warmer than gloves. Wear a hat, and cover your mouth with a scarf. If driving, keep your gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines. Check your antifreeze and windshield washer fluid levels. Be sure to carry a fully charged cell phone. If you are at home, consider allowing indoor plumbing fixtures to drip, to allow water to trickle through pipes and inhibit freezing. Use caution with space heaters in order to avoid fire or injury. Never bring outdoor heating sources such as grills indoors. If emergency generators will be used, they must be situated outdoors in well-ventilated areas to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Also, remember to check in on family, friends, and elderly neighbors who might be susceptible to the cold. Do not forget about your pets and livestock. Make sure they have a source of water that will not freeze and a warm place to take shelter from the wind and cold.