An extreme cold warning has been issued for Parry Sound-Muskoka.
A period of very cold wind chills is expected. As has been the case quite often this winter, bitterly cold arctic air will return to the region later today in the wake of a sharp arctic cold front. Stiff northwesterly winds combining with temperatures in the minus 25 to minus 30 range will once again result in extreme wind chills of minus 40 to minus 30 overnight and Monday morning.
People planning to be outdoors should dress appropriately and exercise caution as exposed skin may freeze in as little as 10 minutes. Wind chills will slowly improve somewhat Monday afternoon as temperatures moderate.
While anyone who isn’t dressed warmly is at risk in cold weather conditions, some are at greater risk than others for frost bite and hypothermia: – homeless people – outdoor workers – people living in homes that are poorly insulated (with no heat or no power) – people with certain medical conditions such as diabetes, peripheral neuropathy and diseases affecting the blood vessels, people taking certain medications including beta-blockers – winter sport enthusiasts – people who consume excess alcohol – infants and – seniors. Wear appropriate clothing. – Always wear clothing appropriate for the weather. Synthetic and wool fabrics provide better insulation. Some synthetic fabrics are designed to keep perspiration away from your body which keep you dry and further reduce your risk. – Dress in layers with a wind resistant outer layer. You can remove layers if you get too warm (before you start sweating) or add a layer if you get cold. – Wear warm socks, gloves, a hat and scarf in cold weather. Be sure to cover your nose to protect it. – If you get wet, change into dry clothing as soon as possible. You lose heat faster when you’re wet.
Extreme cold warnings are issued when very cold temperatures or wind chill creates an elevated risk to health such as frost bite and hypothermia. Environment Canada meteorologists will update alerts as required, so stay tuned to Moose FM.