City issues cold alert for Sunday night, coldest so far this winter

The City of Hamilton says its public health department issues cold alerts when the temperature is expected to drop below -15 C, or -20 C with wind chill.

Based on information from Environment Canada, Dr. David McKeown, Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health, has issued an Extreme Cold Weather Alert today for Toronto that will be in effect until further notice, as very low temperatures are expected overnight.

“Wind always makes it feel colder, and increases the risk of frostbite and hypothermia”, said Hamilton public health.

Anyone can be affected by extreme cold-related weather conditions, depending on length of time of exposure to cold and exertion levels.

McKeown’s office warns of the risk to people working outdoors, the elderly, very young, and the homeless. Open doorways to basement areas and crawl spaces enough to keep these areas warm.

The City has notified community agencies who work with vulnerable and homeless people. If you meet or know anyone who needs shelter during the cold weather alert, you can contact the Salvation Army with the person’s location at 905-527-1444, ext. 0. The alert triggers the opening of additional shelter beds, as well as increased street outreach.

Seek shelter if you normally spend long periods outside.