Southcoast Facing Bitter Cold Weekend

Forecasters are warning residents in Southeastern Mass. to prepare for extreme cold this weekend.

The National Weather Service says a "polar vortex" will move into the region this weekend, sending the mercury plunging below zero by Sunday morning.

Dr. Robert Caldas, the Chief Medical Officer at Southcoast Health says no one should take the cold for granted.

"The extreme temperatures that we're going to have this weekend can be potentially dangerous and fatal," said Dr. Caldas. "When going outdoors, you really need to protect yourself and try to limit your exposure in these extreme temperatures."

Dr. Caldas recommends staying indoors this weekend, but if you have to go outside, dress in layers, wear a hat, and cover your face with a scarf.

Residents are being warned to safeguard against frostbite with wind chills that could hit 40-below.

Dr. Caldas adds, residents should check on elderly neighbors during the extreme cold, and keep your pets indoors as well.

Because of the cold, New Bedford's emergency overflow shelter at Coggeshall St. will be open 24 hours a day, through the weekend.

(Metro Networks Inc. contributed to this report)