City of Toronto issues Extreme Cold Weather Alert

Yesterday we told you that it was going to hit -15°C in Toronto by the weekend.

Well, we were wrong – it’s already done it. And the City of Toronto has issued an Extreme Cole Weather Alert for today, January 5, as a result.

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.”

#ExtremeColdWeatherAlert has been issued for Toronto today. Details: https://t.co/CHvap8h4dK

— Toronto PublicHealth (@TOPublicHealth) January 5, 2017

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 -17°C.

And it’s 9 am.

By tonight, it’s going to feel more like -20°C in Toronto. But hey, at least there’s no snow…right?

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.

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