Extreme cold watch for 3 Massachusetts counties for Friday and Saturday – wind chills as low as -25

On Thursday at 12:17 a.m. an extreme cold watch was released by the National Weather Service valid from Friday 7 p.m. until Saturday 1 p.m. for Franklin, Hampshire and Hampden counties.

The weather service says, "Dangerously cold wind chills as low as 25 degrees below possible."

"The dangerously cold wind chills as low as 25 below zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes," explains the weather service. "Dress in layers including a hat, face mask, and gloves if you must go outside."

Understanding cold weather alerts

Extreme cold watch: Be Prepared. An extreme cold watch is issued when dangerously cold air temperatures or wind chill values are possible. As with a warning, adjust your plans to avoid being outside during the coldest parts of the day. Make sure your car has at least half a tank of gas, and update your winter survival kit.

Extreme cold warning: Take Action! An extreme cold warning is issued when dangerously cold air temperatures or wind chill values are expected or occurring. If you are in an area with an extreme cold warning, avoid going outside. If you have to go outside, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and make sure at least one other person knows your whereabouts. Update them when you arrive safely at your destination.

Cold weather advisory: Be Aware. A cold weather advisory is issued when seasonably cold air temperatures or wind chill values, but not extremely cold values, are expected or occurring. Be sure you and your loved ones dress appropriately and cover exposed skin when venturing outdoors.

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