City of Toronto issues extreme cold weather alert

Dec 14 2016, 9:43 pm

Don’t let the sun fool you, it’s hella cold in Toronto today.

So much so that the City of Toronto has already officially issued an Extreme Cold Weather Alert:

According to a release from the City, “Extreme Cold Weather Alerts are issued when the temperature is forecast to reach -15ºC or colder, or when the wind chill is forecast to reach -20 or colder.”

At the time of writing this article, The Weather Network says it currently ‘feels like’ -14°C in Toronto, while Environment Canada concludes that with the wind chill factor, outside temperatures in Toronto are already resting at -18°C.

And it’s 9 am.

As we told you on Monday, these temperatures aren’t a surprise. Well, until you walk outside and feel them hit you for the first time – then the word shock seems more appropriate.

Couple this with the fact that Toronto is also expected to receive up to 15 cm of snow in the next few days and it’s going to be a long winter week for many of us in Toronto.

During an Extreme Cold Weather Alert, the City of Toronto encourages 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 21ºC 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.

Stay safe and warm out there, Toronto.

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