An extreme cold warning is in effect for much of southwestern Ontario on Monday night, including Windsor-Essex, Chatham-Kent, and Sarnia. An Extreme Cold Warning and Cold Weather Advisory are in effect from 9 PM tonight until 10 AM Tuesday as dangerously cold temperatures grip the region. After a frigid start to the week, gusty west-northwest winds will continue pulling in Arctic air, causing overnight lows to plummet to -8°F. With wind chill, temperatures will feel as cold as -25°F to -35°F by daybreak. These conditions pose serious risks of frostbite and hypothermia, so residents are urged to dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and limit time outdoors. According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, wind chill values will drop close to -30°C late Monday into early Tuesday.
Warning Preparedness Meteorologist Geoff Coulson stated that as skies clear under a frigid Arctic air mass, temperatures will plummet to around -19°C. However, with the wind chill, it will feel much colder.
With the wind chill, it’s going to feel close to -30,” Coulson said.
Throughout Monday, wind chills in southwestern Ontario have already ranged between -15°C and -20°C, but they are expected to drop further overnight.
Credit: ca.news.yahoo.com
Stay Indoors If Possible
Coulson advises residents to stay indoors unless necessary. If going outside, it’s crucial to dress appropriately since frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin.
The weather office warns of serious risks associated with extreme cold, including shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle pain and weakness, numbness, and color changes in fingers and toes.
“Vulnerable populations, such as young children, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, outdoor workers, and those without proper shelter, are at higher risk,” the warning states.
Additionally, officials remind pet owners that if it’s too cold for you to stay outside, it’s too cold for your pet.
Chilly Week Ahead
Cold conditions will persist through the week, with overnight lows expected to hit -17°C on Tuesday night, with a wind chill of -22. However, temperatures should return to seasonal norms by Friday. Fortunately, the frigid temperatures won’t linger for long, as highs are expected to rebound to around 40°F by the end of the weekend. After a snowy weekend, the workweek has started on a much quieter note, with high pressure bringing clear skies and calm conditions. Tonight will remain clear and cold, and aside from a few afternoon clouds and a possible isolated flurry, tomorrow will feature plenty of sunshine. The next chance for snow arrives on Wednesday, though it is expected to be minor.
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