For the third time this month, the Middlesex London Health Unit has issued a Cold Weather Alert for the area.
The health unit issued the alert Tuesday afternoon in anticipation of the overnight temperature falling to -17C with windchill values of -24 C.
“The cold winter weather continues in London and Middlesex County so we want to remind everyone of the importance of taking the necessary precautions to prevent cold-related illness and injuries,” said Environmental Health Manager David Pavletic. “We continue to advise people to limit time spent outdoors during Cold Weather Alerts, and if you have to be outdoors, to dress appropriately for the conditions and cover exposed skin.”
Cold Weather Alerts are issued when temperatures are expected to drop to -15 C or lower or when windchill values are expected to make it feel like -20 C or lower.
The bone-chilling conditions could lead to cold-related injuries including frostbite, according to the health unit. Symptoms include skin turning red, blue, or in later stages, a grey/white colour. Anyone who suspects they have frostbite is advised not to rub the affected area but to warm it by placing it next to warmer skin or immersing it in warm, not hot, water. It can take up to 60 minutes to re-warm the frostbitten area.
The cold also increases the risk of hypothermia, which takes hold when a person’s internal body temperature drops below normal. Symptoms can include pale skin, drowsiness, confusion, and hallucinations. Severe cases can cause a loss of consciousness, shallow breathing, and a hard to detect pulse. Anyone exhibiting these symptoms should be taken for immediate medical treatment.
