Eastern Ontario Braces for Extreme Cold, Wind Chill Values Could Reach -35°C
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A severe cold snap is gripping eastern Ontario, prompting Environment Canada to issue widespread warnings as temperatures plummet. Residents are bracing for dangerously low wind chill values, potentially reaching –35°C on Thursday night, and sustained frigid conditions through the weekend.
The immediate threat extends across several key cities. Temperatures are expected to remain around –25°C in Ottawa, Kingston, and Pembroke well into Friday morning. While Friday night may offer a slight reprieve, the Ottawa Valley could see temperatures dip back down to –25°C on Saturday night, though a wind chill forecast for Saturday is not yet available.
Regional Variations in the Cold Weather
The impact of the cold is not uniform across the region. While Gatineau, Quebec, typically experiences similar conditions to Ottawa, alerts are currently limited to the Ontario side. Further west in Quebec, Maniwaki is forecast to reach approximately –20°C over the next few nights, with wind chill making it feel closer to –30°C.
Protecting Yourself from the Extreme Cold
Health Canada officials are urging residents to take immediate precautions against the hazardous conditions. The agency recommends dressing in multiple layers with a wind-resistant outer layer, and prioritizing the protection of extremities – hands, feet, ears, and nose – to prevent frostbite. Maintaining blood flow through movement is also crucial.
Beyond clothing, the agency advises wearing sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm even on sunny days like Saturday to guard against windburn. A critical warning was also issued against consuming alcohol, as it can create a false sense of warmth and impair judgment.
Community Responses and Available Resources
Municipalities and counties are responding to the cold weather in varied ways. Many are encouraging residents to utilize community spaces, such as libraries, as warming locations during the day. Several cities have gone further, establishing dedicated overnight warming centers.
Belleville and Cornwall have both opened overnight warming centers to provide shelter from the cold. In Kingston, a temporary warming center at the Artillery Park Aquatics Centre on Bagot Street has been extended until Monday morning.
However, the response in Ottawa has faced scrutiny. While the city has requested individuals who typically sleep outdoors to seek refuge in emergency or transitional shelters, this directive has drawn criticism from some quarters. The City of Ottawa does maintain an online map detailing locations where residents can warm up during the extreme cold. Individuals seeking shelter referrals or assistance for those in need can contact 311. In the event of a medical emergency, such as suspected hypothermia, authorities urge the public to call 911 immediately.
