The extreme cold snap is expected to last through Monday, December 19, 2022.

According to the National Weather Service, sub-freezing temperatures are possible for a period of three to five hours between 2 a.m. PST and 8 a.m. PST each night and early morning through Monday, December 19.

Frost and freeze conditions can damage or kill crops and other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing.

Unhoused individuals, older adults, children, and those with access and functional needs are encouraged by the KCDPH to move to the nearest shelter if possible. For warming places, Kings County residents can call 211 or visit: https://www.211kingscounty.org/housing/warming-cooling-centers 

Kings County Department of Public Health recommends that individuals protect themselves from freezing temperatures by practicing the following steps:

• Drive slowly and be on the lookout for hazardous road conditions, including slick pavement, fog, and ponding on roads and freeway off-ramps.
• Avoid being outside during the coldest part of the day or for extended periods of time in frigid weather.
• Dress in layers. Wear a hat, scarf, gloves, mittens, and waterproof, insulated boots to avoid hypothermia or frostbite.
• Get out of wet clothes as soon as possible to reduce the risk of hypothermia.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water with electrolytes.
• Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and non-prescription medication if you will be staying outside, as it may lead to death or sevious injury.
• Seek medical attention immediately and call 911 if you see someone experiencing hypothermia.

Additional information regarding combating extreme cold temperatures may be found at: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/EPO/Pages/ExtremeCold.aspx and https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather.