SWPH Issues Extreme Cold Weather Alert for January 28 2022

Temperature in St. Thomas, Elgin and Oxford Counties expected to dip to -33^oC into early Saturday morning

Southwestern Public Health is issuing an extreme cold weather alert for the St. Thomas, Elgin County and Oxford County region, with windchill temperatures as low as -33˚C expected overnight on Friday January 28 and continuing into Saturday morning.

Cold weather alerts are issued locally when Environment Canada forecasts the temperature, with or without windchill, to reach -31^oC for at least two hours.

During a cold weather alert, residents should take precautions to protect themselves from the cold to avoid complications such as frostbite and hypothermia. Those most vulnerable to the effects of the cold include older adults, infants and young children, outdoor workers, those who like outdoor sports such as skiing and hiking, and homeless persons who do not have shelter, proper clothing, or food.

For more health guidance related to extreme cold weather, including a list of public warming centres, visit www.swpublichealth.ca/extreme-cold.

Quick Facts:

Hypothermia occurs when the body temperature drops below 35˚C, affecting the ability to think clearly and move well. If you suspect hypothermia or see someone suffering from it, call 911. The warning signs of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech and drowsiness. Infants may have red, cold skin and very low energy. Hypothermia is a medical emergency.

Frostbite causes a loss of feeling and color in the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, or toes. Signs of frostbite include a white or grayish-yellow skin area, skin that feels unusually firm or waxy, and numbness. If you think you have frostbite, seek medical care.