Below-average temperatures and possible snow in the next two days will put children, seniors and pets at risk, agencies warn.

A northern cold front moving across Southeast Missouri today will likely bring as much as 1 inch of snow by Thursday morning, said meteorologist Greg Meffert with the National Weather Service in Paducah, Ky.

Today's highs will be in the mid-30s, with evening lows in the lower 20s. Thursday's highs will reach lower 20s to upper 30s. Average temperatures in the mid-40s should return during the weekend, Meffert said.

As part of its "cold weather rule," AmerenUE will not disconnect power from homes until the temperature rises above 32 degrees, said Jean Mason, manager of AmerenUE SEMO division. Homes already disconnected due to nonpayment must make arrangements for a payment before they are reconnected, Mason said.

With natural gas prices in Southeast Missouri 30 percent higher this year than last, the region's average monthly residential bill is $37.80 higher, said Mike Cleary, spokesman for AmerenUE.

Winterizing homes, especially older ones, will warm homes up and help reduce utility costs, Mason said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises on its Web site that during extreme cold conditions thermostats remain at 65 degrees during the day and 55 degrees at night.

Agencies also advise sealing up drafty doors and windows, inserting foam plugs into electrical outlets along the outer walls of older homes, putting storm windows down and insulating walls and attics.

Children and seniors are most at risk in cold temperatures, said the CDC, which recommends wearing loose-fitting and layered clothes with water-resistent outer garments.

Major Michael Thomas of the Salvation Army in Cape Girardeau said 2,000 coats were given out in the last three weeks. Blankets and clothing will be accepted for donation, and money will aid low-income seniors who cannot afford their utility bills, he said.

"The season's all about others," Thomas said. "What a better way to show it."

The Humane Society of Southeast Missouri advises that all pets be brought indoors, regardless if they are typically outdoor pets, said board member Requi Salter.

If a garage or basement is not available, she suggested providing draft-free dog houses stocked with straw, not hay, blankets or towels. She said pet owners should try to keep their pets dry and their paws clean to remove de-icing chemicals. Pets also need extra food during colder temperatures, she said.

jmetelski@semissourian.com