Temperatures in Sarnia-Lambton are forecast to plummet to below -15 C early next week.
As a result, Lambton County’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Karalyn Dueck, has issued a Cold Weather Alert for the region.
It will be in effect beginning in the overnight hours Monday, February 17, and through Tuesday, February 18 with the potential to extend beyond.
A Cold Weather Alert is issued when one or more of the following is met:
• Daily, low temperature is predicted to be -15 C, without a wind chill value.
• Environment Canada issues a wind chill warning for Lambton County.
• Extreme weather conditions, such as a blizzard or ice storm, are predicted.
Lambton Public Health is telling local agencies that provide shelter and assistance to individuals experiencing homelessness to prepare for an increase in demand.
Residents are being reminded to take precautions by dressing in layers, shielding exposed areas from the wind such as head, neck, and face, and limiting time spent outdoors.
Symptoms of hypothermia may include pale skin, lethargy, confusion, excessive shivering and hallucinations.
More information can be found on the health unit's website.