Extreme Cold Warning issued as "bitterly cold wind chills" near -30°C expected

As mentioned earlier, the cold is returning to Toronto.

And now, the city has issued an Extreme Cold Weather Alert on Thursday morning in anticipation of colder weather conditions within the next 24 hours or longer. Additionally, Environment Canada has issued an Extreme Cold Weather Warning.

The alert 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°C or colder, or when the wind chill is forecast to reach -20°C or colder.

Environment Canada warns of “bitterly cold wind chills near -30 are expected overnight and into Friday morning.”

“Extreme cold warnings are issued when very cold temperatures or wind chill creates an elevated risk to health such as frost bite and hypothermia,” said the warning.

The good news is, temperatures should rise Friday morning.

Environment Canada forecasted that Toronto will see some more snow today, with temperatures falling to -5°C this afternoon, but it will feel more like -15°C with the windchill.

Environment Canada

By tonight, we will see more snow and a low of -19°C. But, Environment Canada forecasts it will feel more like -27°C overnight.

The city is reminding the public that extreme weather poses a serious threat to vulnerable residents, those who work outdoors, people with a pre-existing heart condition or respiratory illness, elderly people, infants, and young people.

A warming centre is open at Metro Hall by 7 pm the day an alert is called, and remains open continuously until noon on the day an alert is terminated.

The city is also asking that residents help vulnerable people by calling 311 if there is a need for street outreach assistance, or to call 911 if the situation is an emergency.

During an Extreme Cold Weather Alert, members of the public are encouraged 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 absorbs and holds moisture, no longer keeping the wearer warm.
• 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.