BROOKHAVEN — The National Weather Service has issued a cold weather advisory for Lincoln County. The advisory will last from midnight tonight into Tuesday morning at 10 a.m.

Very cold wind chills are expected tonight prompting the cold weather advisory.

“Frostbite and hypothermia will occur if unprotected skin is exposed to these temperatures,”  NWS Jackson states. “Wind chill values can lead to hypothermia with prolonged exposure. Very cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia with prolonged exposure.”

People should exercise caution while traveling outside, wear appropriate clothing, keep pets indoors as much as possible, make sure outdoor animals have shelter, water and food. Make frequent checks on older family, friends and neighbors.

Dangerous cold weather is in the forecast for this week with wind chills between 13 to 20 degrees. Hypothermia is possible with exposure to the elements so be sure you layer up. There is possible danger for exposed pipes and potentially dangerous cold temperatures are expected to last throughout the week.

Highs are forecast to be in the 40s with lows falling below freezing into the 20s. There is an chance of 80 percent chance of rain and possibly snow showers Thursday night into Friday. NWS Jackson advises wintry weather is possible with a mixture of sleet and freezing rain possible. This could result in impacts to travel and possibly cause power outages.

The winter system is still a few days away so check back for more updates.

Residents should keep fire safety in mind as they heat their home. Mississippi State Fire Marshall’s Office advises people to keep clothes, drapes and anything else combustible at least 3 feet away from a heat source. Never plug space heaters into extension cords but instead plug them into the wall. Never use a stove or oven to heat a residence.