Extreme Cold Warning

Environment Canada has issued an Extreme Cold Warning for Waterloo Region beginning early Thursday, and continuing into Friday morning. Although temperatures look to rise slightly on Saturday, the cold temperatures will return on Sunday. This Extreme Cold Warning will remain in effect until early next week when the temperatures no longer pose a risk to the general population.

An Extreme Cold Warning is issued when cold temperatures and wind speeds are severe enough to affect all residents that may be exposed outside for an extended time. This warning is issued when the combined temperature and wind chill is predicted to be the equivalent of -30oC or colder. At this temperature, exposed skin can freeze in 10-30 minutes. The risk of exposure to these temperatures and wind chill may result in frostnip, frostbite, or hypothermia.

All residents have the potential to be affected by extreme cold-related weather conditions, depending on the length of time exposed and exertion levels. These risks are especially high for: older adults (over the age of 65), infants and young children, outdoor workers, sport enthusiasts (hikers, skiers), people with chronic illnesses, and people experiencing homelessness and lacking shelter, proper clothing, or food.

Be prepared for extreme cold events by:

• Listening to the weather forecast before going outside
• Planning ahead and modifying your plans according to the weather
• Dressing warmly (including hats, mitts, scarves)
• Staying dry
• Knowing when to limit your outdoor activity

While it is important to be active and enjoy the outdoors during the winter months, please remember to take precautions to avoid cold-related injuries such as frostbite and hypothermia. It is also important that you keep an emergency vehicle safety kit in your car at all times. This kit can include items such as: cell phone, blankets, booster cables, shovel, first aid supplies, flashlight and batteries, extra boots/socks, etc. A kit such as this can save your life or someone else’s. Remember to plan ahead and listen to the weather forecast!

In periods of extreme cold, designated local buildings, called Warming Centres, open their doors during regular business hours to anyone who wants to warm up from the cold. Go to the Region of Waterloo Public Health & Emergency Services website for a list of Warming Centres in your area: www.regionofwaterloo.ca/extremecold

Information on weather forecasts, wind-chill information, and public alert bulletins can be obtained from Environment Canada. For additional information, see the Extreme Cold Weather Fact Sheet, Understanding Winter Weather Fact Sheet, and other information about what to do when there is a winter power failure on Public Health & Emergency Services’ website or by calling 519-575-4400 (TTY 519-575-4608).

Be a good neighbour: share this information with those that may need it.

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Media contact: Kirsten Keil-Mehlenbacher, Coordinator, Health Communications, 519-575-4400 ext. 2244