Matthew Hamilton is reporting at Capitol Confidential the state Department of Environmental Conservation is warning anyone planning a hike into the Adirondack backcountry in the coming days to take precautions to avoid hypothermia and frostbite, in light of the extremely cold temperatures and wind chills currently forecast. The National Weather Service has issued an advisory for most of the region, beginning December 27, predicting chills of minus 15 to 25, bringing the potential to cause frostbite to exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. The wind chill temperature at the summit of Mt. Marcy on Wednesday is expected to be minus 43. The DEC suggests wearing items of clothing to cover all skin including, layers of synthetic or wool winter clothing; warm socks and winter boots; an insulated, wind resistant upper and lower outer shell; a hat and gloves or mittens; scarf or ski mask; and, goggles or glasses. The department also suggests spending only short periods of time in the outdoors. Read the full story at Capitol Confidential, a Times Union blog.