As Central New York faces dangerously low temperatures, SUNY Cortland students are being urged to take extra precautions following an Extreme Cold Warning issued by the National Weather Service (NWS).
The warning, which impacts Cortland County and surrounding areas, predicts wind chills ranging from 20 to 35 degrees below zero, creating serious health and safety risks, including frostbite and hypothermia, which can develop rapidly if proper precautions are not taken.
According to the NWS, an arctic front moving through the region has brought a combination of frigid air and strong winds, causing wind chills to remain well below zero for an extended period of time.
For SUNY Cortland students, the freezing temperatures present daily challenges, especially for those who walk across campus, commute to class, or live off-campus. Many students rely on walking as their primary mode of transportation, increasing their exposure to harsh wind chills during early morning or evening classes.
Slippery walkways, strong gusts of wind, and limited daylight can further complicate travel across campus. Campus officials and emergency management staff emphasize the importance of limiting time outdoors whenever possible, as frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes under these conditions. Students are encouraged to dress in multiple layers rather than relying on a single heavy coat, since layered clothing helps trap body heat more effectively.
Protective accessories such as gloves, hats, scarves or face coverings, and insulated winter footwear are also strongly recommended to reduce heat loss, particularly from vulnerable areas including the nose, ears, fingers, cheeks, and toes. Covering exposed skin can significantly lower the risk of cold-related injuries. Officials also advise students to avoid lingering outdoors between classes and to seek indoor shelter if they begin to feel numbness or discomfort caused by the cold.
Students who suspect frostbite or hypothermia in themselves or others are advised to seek medical assistance right away. Campus safety officials stress that ignoring early warning signs can lead to severe medical complications.
Extreme cold can also create additional hazards for students living both on and off campus. The SUNY Cortland Emergency Management Office encourages students to ensure windows are fully closed and that building doors are properly latched to help conserve heat. Off-campus students may face higher heating demands and are encouraged to monitor their living spaces to ensure heating systems are working safely and efficiently. Improper heating methods can increase the risk of carbon monoxide exposure or fire hazards during cold weather.
The warning also brings attention to safety considerations for students who own pets, particularly those living in apartments or rental housing. Pets should be kept indoors as much as possible, as freezing temperatures can be just as dangerous for animals despite their fur. When pets must go outside, owners are encouraged to limit outdoor time and ensure animals remain warm and dry. Adequate food and water are also important, as cold weather can increase dehydration risks.
Students are advised to stay updated on weather alerts and campus notifications as conditions change, as extreme cold can impact transportation, travel safety, and campus operations. While winter weather is a familiar part of life in Cortland, the severity of current conditions serves as an important reminder that extreme cold can quickly become dangerous. By taking preventative steps, staying informed, and following safety recommendations, SUNY Cortland students can better protect themselves while navigating the challenges of winter weather on campus.