Wind chill, frostbite advisory in effect through Noon today

When you walk outside this morning, brace yourself for some of the coldest wind chills we've felt this season.

According to Accuweather, the real feel temp will be around -15.

But unlike the Midwest, the Northern Seacoast version of the Polar Vortex will be only a shadow of its former self, with highs recovering today to 14 degrees, followed by a high of 20 on Friday and almost 30 on Saturday. Believe it or not, the high for Monday is projected at almost 50.

But back to today. A wind chill advisory is in effect till noon as this morning's temps can result in frostbite on exposed skin in just a half hour of exposure, so make sure gloves, scarves and hats are all being used.

Meanwhile, the Strafford County Severe Weather Shelter is up and running since Wednesday at 3 p.m. and will remain open till Sunday at 10 a.m.

As before COAST bus service runs daily to the shelter, which is housed in the Annex at 276 County Farm Road in Dover. The nearest bus stop is County Farm Cross/County Farm Road.

Shelter chief Tory Jennison is asking cities, towns, and social service agencies to coordinate and/or support transportation for their residents and clients. Limited alternative transportation may be available upon request to the Shelter. For more info call 857-323-0388.

And in a move to remove another potential barrier to shelter use, Jennison will update Strafford County Commissioners tonight on an agreement with Cocheco Valley Humane Society, who has agreed to host pets for shelter clients during severe weather events.

"The details are still being drafted, but it's a great collaboration that I'm really grateful for," Jennison said late Wednesday.