The Middlesex-London Health Unit has issued its first cold weather alert of the year as temperatures are set to plunge well-below freezing.
The alert will come into effect after midnight with windchill values expected at -22 C, the health unit said on Thursday. The alert will continue through Friday with frigid temperatures and strong winds making it feel like -23 C around London and Middlesex County.
There are also flurries in the forecast which could bring a few centimetres of snowfall by Friday evening.
“With a milder winter season so far, these drastic changes in temperature can take a negative toll on our bodies and our health if we aren’t properly protected,” said David Pavletic, the health unit's manager of food safety and healthy environments. “We continue to advise people to limit the time they spend outdoors when it gets this cold, but if you have to be outside, dress appropriately for the conditions and make sure to cover exposed skin.”
The health unit also provided a warning about frostbite and hypothermia - medical conditions that can be brought on by extreme cold weather. While the former ailment can usually be treated at home, health professionals recommend medical attention for anyone showing severe symptoms of frostbite, or any signs of hypothermia.
As a result of the cold weather alert, the city of London will have several warming centres available to the public. A list of locations can be found on their website.
Cold weather alerts are issued by the health unit when temperatures are expected to drop below -15 C, or when windchill values are expected to be -20 C or lower.
