Polar vortex to bring severe cold, freezing weather

Temperatures will plunge to -1 degrees.

Photo Credit: (MGN Online)

Gage Goulding, News Editor

MOON TOWNSHIP – A winter weather system moving into the western Pennsylvania region this week will bring subzero temperatures to the region.

According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, temperatures on Wednesday are expected to drop to a low of -1 degree with a high of only 12 degrees.

The NWS issued a Wind Chill Advisory for the Pittsburg region which takes effect at 5 a.m. Wednesday and will remain active until 5 p.m. Thursday evening.

Thursday will bring a slight warm up with temperatures rising to a high of 13 degrees and a low of 7 degrees. Seasonal averages will return to the area on Friday, according to the National Weather Service.

Wind chills during the advisory could reach as cold as -20 degrees. In the subzero temperatures the area will experience this week, officials say that frostbite and hypothermia are major concerns.

Experts recommend staying indoors if possible. The National Weather Service says if you must go outside, try to limit the amount of exposed skin.