City of Toronto issues extreme cold weather alert for tonight
Following the news that the GTA will be experiencing January-like temperatures this evening as an arctic front passes across southern Ontario, the City of Toronto has 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 -20ºC or colder.”
NEWS RELEASE: Extreme Cold Weather Alert – seek shelter, check on loved ones. More info: https://t.co/RP7MBcDIfw
— Toronto PublicHealth (@TOPublicHealth) November 9, 2017
Currently, it’s 8°C in Toronto, but don’t let that fool you. The Weather Network has reported that high-impact winter weather is on the way.
As the afternoon goes by, the temperature will drop and with the wind chill it could feel like -18°C.
On top of this, the cold front is expected to reach Toronto by the evening commute and the city is expected to receive 2 cm of snow. Toronto police have already issued a warning for commuters, urging them to be prepared and drive with caution.
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.
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.
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