The National Weather Service has issued a wind chill warning from 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 3, to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, in northern Worcester County and northern Middlesex County. Harvard Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director Rick Sicard told the Press he will be monitoring the situation and has plans to open the warming center in the Bromfield School if necessary. Hildreth House might also be used as a warming center for elderly residents without heat. Sicard said that any resident who is without power or heat should contact Harvard Police at 978-456-1212, and press 8 to speak with a dispatcher.
Dangerously cold wind chills, as low as 40 degrees below zero, are expected. The lowest wind chills will be Friday night, when temperatures in Harvard are expected to dip to -9 degrees. Dangerously cold wind chills can cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes. The NWS advises avoiding outdoor activities, but if you must go outside, make sure to wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves. Pets should also be kept inside during the cold spell
