Deep freeze for Ontario
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Freezing weather has hit Southern Ontario. On this chilly start to the new year it feels like minus 20 outside after factoring in the wind chill in most parts of Southern Ontario.
That’s making for an unpleasant first day back to work or school after the holidays for many. The frigid temperatures mean many municipalities, including Hamilton and Niagara, have issued cold weather alerts. And the temperature isn’t expected to warm up any time soon.
It’s a chilly start to the new year, feeling like minus 20 with the wind chill in most parts of Southern Ontario — making for an unpleasant first day for many heading back to work or school after the holidays. The frigid temperatures mean many municipalities, including Hamilton and Niagara, have issued cold weather alerts. And the weather is not likely to get better any time soon.
After a fairly mild holiday season, the return to routine came as a cold shock.
“Little bit cold for the start up. But we’ll get used to it.”
Most people headed back to work all bundled up, and kids shivered all the way to school.
“It’s pretty hard to walk because it’s cold and your hands freeze.”
Some were caught a bit off guard by the fallen temperatures.
(You don’t have a hat on!) “No, I couldn’t find it this morning.” (Did you know it would be this cold?) “No. It’s freezing.”
“We can’t wait to get inside, right guys? It’s pretty cold.”
“I can’t stand another minute out here.”
They’re glad the school board cancels outdoor recess when the city issues a cold alert.
“It’s way too cold. And it’s the first day back and I don’t feel like coming back to school.”
Hamilton police will spend the night actively looking to bring people to shelter.
Hamilton Police Sgt. John Canaris: “They’re looking for people improperly dressed and places for people to get warm that aren’t the right places — underground parking lots, alleys, heating vents — and trying to coax these people into going to some of these shelters.”
OPP say so far, the only real weather problems on the roads happened north of here, closer to Barrie. But they say that could change at any moment and you should always be ready.
Check the Transport Canada website for how to prepare a winter emergency kit for your car.
Things like energy bars and water, a blanket and extra warm clothing, and a candle and matches. They can heat up a stalled car. You should also have a snowbrush, jumper cables and extra wiper fluid.
The CAA says it could take longer to get service, and advises that you check your car’s battery. It should last about five years but cold weather can drain its power. If the ignition sounds or feels off, or your headlights dim when you’re idling, you might need a new battery.
