GREEN BAY (WLUK) -- As extreme cold weather is forecasted to hit Wisconsin next week, residents are being warned about the health and home challenges posed by the accompanying dry air. Heaters will be working overtime, but they also contribute to significantly reduced humidity levels, with some homes experiencing relative humidity as low as 2 to 3%.

"When there is extremely low humidity in the air, your skin is losing more moisture to the surrounding air, which is more likely to dry it out. Similar to the skin, our nasal passages dry out a little bit when they have such low humidity," said Rory Fry of Prevea Health.

Prevea Health has already noticed an uptick in patients with respiratory issues. "We are seeing a lot of those things coming in, already. And that's even before the temperatures are going to drop," Fry said. Individuals with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD are particularly at risk.

The effects of dry air extend beyond health concerns. Wooden musical instruments, such as guitars, are also susceptible to damage. "So when the air is really dry, you're going to have a lot more tuning issues. There's water in wood, so just like with your furniture cracking, that can unfortunately happen to wooden instruments," said Michael Pittman, store manager at HEID Music in Green Bay.

Dry air can cause wooden furniture and floors to shrink and crack as they lose moisture. Additionally, low humidity increases the likelihood of static electricity buildup, leading to more static shocks.

To mitigate the effects of dry air, Fry recommends using a humidifier. "Probably the most obvious thing is just getting a humidifier. Adding one of those to a room can certainly improve the humidity and can decrease your respiratory and dry skin symptoms," Fry said.

Pittman also advised, "Having those preventative measures, having an extra humidified space for your instruments, that can help a lot."

Maintaining comfortable humidity levels between 30 to 40% can benefit your health, home, and hobbies during these bitter cold days.