The state health and emergency management departments are warning Virginians to take care as the mercury plummets this Presidents’ Day long weekend.

The National Weather Service is predicting a reasonable Saturday, with a high in Suffolk of 46; but the temperature will drop to 17 Saturday night, with a 50-percent chance of rain and snow.

Sunday’s prediction is for a high of 28 and blustery, while Sunday night will see temperatures as low as 12.

Washington’s birthday should see a sunny high of 31, according to federal government meteorologists. A chance of snow — 30-percent — will return during the evening.

Breezy-to-blustery conditions will make it seem colder than those temperatures. Forecasters say it could feel as cold as minus 1 on Sunday.

“We all need to take precautions and be mindful of how much time we are spending out of doors,” according to State Health Commissioner Marissa J. Levine.

“When exposed to cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than it can be produced, causing cold-weather health problems such as frostbite and hypothermia.”

Tips include:

• Wear cold-weather appropriate clothing like gloves/mittens, hats, scarves and snow boots. Layer, and cover your face and mouth if possible.
• Be aware of the wind chill factor. Wind can cause body-heat loss.
• Stay dry, and if you become wet, head indoors and remove any wet clothing immediately.
• Limit your time outdoors.
• Make sure you monitor the time your children are out in the cold.
• Do not ignore shivering. It’s an important first sign that the body is losing heat. Persistent shivering is a signal to return indoors.
• If the heat in your home doesn’t work properly, contact your local government to find a warming center near you.
• Check on others who might not be able to care for themselves.