It’s time to bundle up, Toronto.
The City of Toronto has issued an Extreme Cold Alert for Wednesday 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.”
Currently, it’s been forecasted that Toronto will see five to 10 cm of snow this morning and into the afternoon before it tapers off later tonight.
This will be accompanied by below freezing temperatures.
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.
If you plan on being outside today, make sure to dress accordingly, wear warm layers and avoid having any exposed skin.
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