City of Toronto issues Extreme Cold Weather Alert until further notice

Don’t let today’s partially sunny skies fool you.

It’s going to be cold today.

The City of Toronto has issued an Extreme Cold Weather Alert for the city that will be in effect until further notice.

See also

• Environment Canada issues wind warning and blowing snow advisory for Toronto
• The Weather Network forecasts colder than normal temperature for February
• Niagara Falls’ famous ‘ice bridge’ should be forming soon (PHOTOS)

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.

Environment Canada

Environment Canada has forecasted that Toronto will see some flurries today, with temperatures falling to -5°C this afternoon, but it will feel more like -18°C with the windchill.

By tonight it’ll be partly cloudy and the city will see see a 60% chance of flurries, and a low of -12°C, but it will feel more like -20°C.

As well, Environment Canada has issued a blowing snow advisory for Toronto this morning, saying reduced visibilities due to local blowing snow will continue today.

“Flurries and strong westerly winds with gusts of 60 to 90 km/h are expected today. Any fresh snow will be whipped up by the winds creating areas of reduced visibility in exposed areas. Snowfall accumulations are expected to be light,” states the advisory.

Conditions will slowly improve this morning as winds begin to diminish.

The City of Toronto is encouraging members of the public to take the following precautions regarding the cold weather:

• 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 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.