Environment Canada has issued an Extreme Cold Weather Warning for Norfolk County due to dangerously low temperatures and wind chill values that could pose serious health risks.
What to Expect:
- Wind Chill Values: Near minus 30.
- Duration: Tuesday morning through Wednesday morning.
- Temperature Trends: Slight moderation today, followed by even colder conditions tonight. Relief is expected by Wednesday afternoon.
Current Weather Forecast:
Today:
- A mix of sun and cloud with a few flurries expected late this morning.
- Localized flurries near Lake Erie could bring up to 10 cm of snow.
- West winds at 20 km/h, gusting up to 50 km/h, increasing to 40 km/h with gusts of 60 km/h in the afternoon.
- High of minus 12, with wind chill values of minus 23 in the morning and minus 28 in the afternoon.
- Risk of frostbite.
Tonight:
- A few flurries ending late evening, followed by partly cloudy skies with a 30% chance of flurries.
- Winds west at 40 km/h, gusting to 60 km/h, diminishing to 20 km/h late evening.
- Overnight low of minus 21, with wind chill values of minus 27 in the evening and minus 32 overnight.
- Risk of frostbite.
Health and Safety Precautions:
Extreme cold weather can pose significant health risks to residents, including frostbite and hypothermia. Environment Canada advises the following precautions:
- Dress in layers: Wear a wind-resistant outer layer and ensure hands, feet, and the face are well covered.
- Limit outdoor exposure: If it’s too cold for you to stay outside, it’s too cold for pets as well.
- Watch for symptoms of cold-related illnesses: These include shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle weakness, and numbness in extremities.
- Check on vulnerable individuals: Older adults, young children, and those with pre-existing health conditions are at increased risk.