Environment Canada issues extreme cold warning for Hamilton, Halton

An extreme cold warning is in effect for much of Southern Ontario with temperatures expected to plummet as cold winds blow in.

Hamilton, Halton Region and surrounding areas will experience wind chill values between -30 C and -35 C Friday night and into Saturday morning.

“Extreme cold puts everyone at risk,” said Environment Canada in a public alert on its website. “Risks are greater for young children, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, people working or exercising outdoors, and those without proper shelter.”

The weather agency says residents should keep an eye out for cold-related symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle pain and weakness, numbness and colour change in fingers and toes.

It says frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin, especially with wind chill so residents in affected areas should “cover up.”

Extreme cold warnings are issued when very cold temperatures or wind chill create an elevated risk to health such as frostbite and hypothermia.