What are the expected wind chill temperatures in eastern Ontario?

Wind chill temperatures in eastern Ontario are expected to feel as cold as -35 C on Thursday night.

What safety advice does Health Canada provide for extreme cold?

Health Canada advises dressing in layers with wind-resistant outer clothing, protecting extremities, staying active, and avoiding alcohol, which can impair awareness of cold.

How are communities responding to the cold warnings in Ontario?

Communities are opening dedicated overnight warming centres and directing individuals to emergency shelters, with some cities also maintaining maps of public spaces for daytime warming.

Home / Weather / Ontario Braces for Arctic Blast: -35 Wind Chill Expected

Ontario Braces for Arctic Blast: -35 Wind Chill Expected

29 Jan

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Summary

Eastern Ontario faces cold warnings with wind chills reaching -35 C.
Temperatures will hover around -25 C in cities like Ottawa and Kingston.
Health Canada advises layering, protecting extremities, and avoiding alcohol.

Environment Canada has issued cold warnings across eastern Ontario, forecasting temperatures that, combined with wind chill, could make it feel as frigid as -35 C on Thursday night. Cities including Ottawa, Kingston, and Pembroke will likely see temperatures around -25 C well into Friday morning. While Saturday night may offer a slight reprieve, temperatures could again drop to -25 C in the Ottawa Valley.

Health Canada is emphasizing safety precautions, recommending that individuals dress in layers with wind-resistant outer garments. It's crucial to protect extremities like hands, feet, ears, and nose, while staying active to promote blood flow. On sunny days, sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm are advised to prevent windburn.

Community responses to the extreme cold vary. Many municipalities are encouraging people to use public spaces like libraries for warmth during the day. Some cities, such as Belleville and Cornwall, have established dedicated overnight warming centres. Kingston has extended its temporary warming centre, while Ottawa is directing those who would typically sleep outdoors to emergency shelters.