Most of the country is in the middle of a serious cold snap, and Indiana is no exception. Wind chills have been approaching -20°F across central and northern parts of the state, and the National Weather Service has issued extreme cold warnings through Wednesday morning.

This follows the 16-plus inches of snow that fell across central Indiana last weekend. The combination of snowpack and arctic air has made this the coldest stretch of the winter so far.

Here's what you need to know to get through it safely.

Current Conditions and Forecast

Today (Wednesday, Jan. 28): Extreme cold warning in effect until noon. Wind chills below zero this morning, gradually improving to near zero by afternoon. Highs in the mid-teens with partly cloudy skies.

Thursday: Another cold start with wind chills below zero. Highs around 17°F. Cold weather advisory likely in effect.

Friday: Could be the coldest day of the week. Expect single-digit highs in some areas.

Weekend: Gradual improvement. Temperatures should reach the low 20s by Sunday.

Next Week: Upper 20s expected by Monday and Tuesday. Possible light snow around Groundhog Day, but nothing significant.

Health Risks in Extreme Cold

Frostbite can develop in 10 to 15 minutes when wind chills drop below -20°F. Your fingers, toes, nose, and ears are most vulnerable. Warning signs include skin turning white or grayish-yellow and feeling unusually firm or waxy. If you notice these symptoms, get inside immediately and warm the area gradually.

Hypothermia occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce it. Early symptoms include shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and drowsiness. This is especially dangerous because people often don't recognize they're in trouble until it's serious.

Heart strain is a real concern during extreme cold. Shoveling snow or even walking through deep snow can put extra stress on your heart. Take breaks, don't overexert yourself, and call for help if you experience chest pain or shortness of breath.

Protecting Your Home

Prevent frozen pipes:

• Let faucets drip overnight, especially those on exterior walls

• Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate

• Keep your thermostat at a consistent temperature (don't drop it too low at night)

• Know where your main water shut-off valve is located

Prepare for power outages:

• Charge your devices

• Have flashlights and batteries accessible

• If you use a generator, never run it indoors or in an attached garage

Check on heating systems:

• Make sure vents aren't blocked by snow or ice

• If you use a space heater, keep it at least three feet from anything flammable

Warming Centers and Shelter Resources

Indianapolis:

• Indy Parks Family Centers are open during regular hours as warming centers (Broad Ripple, Garfield Park, and others)

• Wheeler Mission provides emergency shelter for men (245 N. Delaware St.) and women with children (3208 E. Michigan St.)

• The Assessment and Intervention Center on the Community Justice Center campus has overflow capacity

Statewide: Call 211 to find warming centers and emergency shelter options in your area.

Important: Indianapolis city ordinance requires pets to be brought indoors when temperatures fall below 20°F or when a wind chill advisory is in effect. If you're concerned about an animal, call the Mayor's Action Center at (317) 327-4622.

Looking Ahead

The worst of this cold stretch should be behind us by Sunday. Temperatures will slowly climb into the 20s over the weekend and approach freezing by late next week.

There's a chance of light snow Sunday and Monday, but accumulation should be minimal.