ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – Cold weather is coming.

Beginning January 20, the National Weather Service (NWS) says a blast of Arctic air will hit the region and send ‘feels-like’ temperatures below zero.

“Bitterly cold Arctic air is expected to hit the region Monday and stick around through Wednesday or Wednesday night,” stated NWS Binghamton Warning Coordination Meteorologist Mark Pellerito. “Confidence is high for below-zero overnight lows and single-digit to teen highs, with wind chill values -15 to -25 possible at times. While we have had a few cold spells recently, don’t be caught off guard – we anticipate this Arctic blast to be the coldest of any experienced in at least the past couple of winters.”

The Tompkins County Department of Emergency Response (TCDoER) warns you to take precautions to protect yourself against frostbite and hypothermia.

Hypothermia signs include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling of hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness.

Signs of frostbite include a lack of feeling in the affected area (commonly fingers, toes, nose, earlobes); and skin that appears waxy, discolored, or cold to the touch.

“Limit your time outdoors, dress in layers, and be sure to wear gloves, a hat, and a scarf to protect your face,” stated TCDoER Community Preparedness Coordinator Geoff Dunn. “If signs of hypothermia or frostbite appear, get out of the cold immediately and call 911.”

Warming centers are available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Department of Social Services at 320 West State Street or after hours at the Code Blue Shelter on 300 North Tioga Street.