Don’t let today’s blue skies fool you.
We’re going to be kicking off the start of the new month with some very freezing temperatures.
The City of Toronto has issued an Extreme Cold Weather Alert for the city that will be in effect until further notice.
According to the city, “Extreme Cold Weather Alerts” are issued when the temperature is forecast to reach -15 degrees Celsius or colder, or when the wind chill is forecast to reach -20 or colder.
Environment Canada
Environment Canada has forecasted that Toronto is going to see a mix of sun and clouds this afternoon with a 60 per cent chance of flurries. This will be accompanied by southwest winds of up to 20 to 50 km/hr throughout the day.
By tonight, it’ll be partly cloudy and we’ll see a 40 per cent chance of flurries with gusts of wind ranging from 30 to 50 km/hr, bringing the temperature to a low of minus 15.
The City of Toronto is encouraging members of the public to take the following precautions:
• Check the weather report before going outside.
• Dress in layers, making sure your outer layer is windproof, and cover exposed skin.
• Wear a hat, warm mittens or gloves, and warm boots.
• Stay dry. Your risk of hypothermia is much greater if you are wet.
• Choose wool or synthetic fabrics for your clothes instead of cotton, because cotton stops keeping you warm once it gets wet.
• Seek shelter if you normally spend long periods outside. Depending on the wind chill, exposed skin can freeze in minutes.
• Drink warm fluids, other than alcohol.
• Warm up by taking regular breaks in heated buildings when enjoying winter activities outside.
• Consider rescheduling outdoor activities, or limiting time outdoors, during colder temperatures, especially if it’s windy.
• Heat your home to at least 21 degrees Celsius if infants or elderly people are present.
• Call or visit vulnerable friends, neighbours and family to ensure they are not experiencing any difficulties related to the weather.
During Extreme Weather Alerts, local services are available to help get and keep vulnerable residents, which includes people experiencing homelessness or those under-housed, and the City of Toronto asks that residents help these individuals by calling 311 if there is a need for street outreach assistance.
Call 911 if the situation is an emergency.
See also
Follow Channels and Categories