Environment Canada has extended the cold warning for Kingston and Belleville through the weekend. The alert comes after a wind chill made temperatures feel like -35°C in Kingston and other parts of eastern Ontario.
Cold Weather Forecast
While other areas in the region have seen their cold warnings lifted, Kingston and Belleville will experience extreme cold overnight on Friday and Saturday. The wind chill is expected to make temperatures feel like -30°C.
Temperature Details
- Friday overnight low: -20°C
- Saturday overnight low: -17°C
- Similar temperatures are expected in Ottawa, though the wind chill will be less severe.
Forecasts indicate that temperatures will begin to normalize early next week, providing some relief from the harsh conditions.
Health Recommendations
Health Canada advises individuals to take precautions during these extreme cold conditions. Here are some recommendations:
- Dress in layers and wear a wind-resistant outer layer.
- Protect extremities such as hands, feet, ears, and nose.
- Keep moving to promote blood flow.
- Use sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm on sunny days to prevent windburn.
- Avoid alcohol, as it can create a false sense of warmth.
Community Support Initiatives
Responses to the cold spell vary across municipalities. Community spaces such as libraries are encouraging residents to warm up during the day. Notably, Belleville and Cornwall have opened specific overnight warming centres. Kingston has extended its temporary warming centre at the Artillery Park Aquatics Centre until Monday morning.
Meanwhile, Ottawa has requested that those who typically sleep outdoors seek emergency or transitional shelters. However, this has faced some criticism. The City of Ottawa also provides a map detailing locations where individuals can find warmth during extreme cold events.
Emergency Resources
For those needing assistance, individuals can contact 311 for shelter referrals. In medical emergencies related to hypothermia, the public is urged to call 911.
