Cold Alert Issued For Mountain Areas As Storm Moves In

LOS ANGELES, CA -- Health officials are warning residents in mountain areas to take precautions through Wednesday in anticipation of cold temperatures.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued a cold weather alert for the mountains. They said wind chill temperatures in those areas could dip to 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Residents are urged to dress in layers and wear hats and gloves, bring pets indoors at night, and never, ever use stoves, barbecues or ovens for heat.

"Children, the elderly and people with disabilities or special medical needs are especially vulnerable during such cold snaps," said Dr. Jeffrey Gunzenhauser, the county's interim health officer. "Extra precaution should be taken to ensure they don't get too cold when they are outside."

A winter shelter program is also in effect, offering locations for people to keep warm. Information is available online at www.lahsa.org/winter--shelter--program.

-- City News Service, photo via Pixabay