HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- A dangerous cold snap has moved in with temperatures dropping close to the single digits.

Schools throughout the region delayed opening for two hours on Tuesday morning because of the frigid weather.

In downtown Huntington Monday night, people wore whatever they could to keep warm.

"The wind chill makes it feel like it's burning your skin," Shanna Sims said.

The chilly air hit Kenny Basinang-Partlow more than most. He just moved back to Huntington after living in Florida the past 30 years.

"You take a deep breath and say ok, I'm in a different place now," he said.

Christine Kirtley works for Help for Animals in Barboursville. She says when it gets cold like this, don't forget about your pets.

Cats and pups should be kept indoors, and pet owners should make sure they don't get into any anti-freeze, which can be fatal.

"If you have a neighbor who leaves their pet out all the time, you want to make sure they have some water," she said.

Fallen mercury is translating to crowded auto shops. A crew at Auto Zone says they see as many as four times more dead batteries when the temperature drops.

Beginning Tuesday people in West Virginia can sign up for heating assistance.

Applications will be available at DHHR offices, community actions agencies, and senior centers.

They have to be turned back in by February 1.

Click the link for the online application.