Sonoma County health officials issue Freeze Warning & Frost Advisory

The County of Sonoma is issuing a freeze warning and frost advisory in response to the National Weather Service’s prediction for freezing overnight lows expected through Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. It is recommended to limit time outdoors, as serious medical conditions including hypothermia and frostbite, can develop with prolonged cold weather exposure. Hypothermia and frostbite are both dangerous conditions that can occur when a person is exposed to extremely low temperatures. Those most at risk include older adults with inadequate food, clothing or heating. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, memory loss, slurred speech, drowsiness, confusion, fumbling hands. In babies, bright red, cold skin and low energy. Effects of frostbite include redness, white or grayish-yellow in any area of the skin, skin that feels unusually firm or waxy or numbness.

Hypothermia and frostbite are serious medical conditions, and anyone who may be suffering from these or any other medical emergency should visit a local emergency room or call 9-1-1.

Additional considerations should be taken for sensitive plants and crops which may die in these conditions. Be sure to properly shelter pets and livestock in warm and dry places. Outdoor plumbing and irrigation may become damaged if not prepared for these freezing conditions.