With frigid temperatures sticking around for another night, the Middlesex London Health Unit has issued its fourth Cold Weather Alert of the season.
The alert was issued Monday afternoon, as forecasters predict temperatures in London and Middlesex County will hover around -12 C overnight, but feel more like -20 C with the windchill. While winds will be much calmer than they were Sunday night, Environment Canada is still predicting gusts of up to 50 km/h across southwestern Ontario Monday night.
“The combination of strong and bitterly cold wind, mixed with overall damp weather conditions, can be particularly dangerous for anyone who has to be outside for any length of time,” said Randy Walker, public health inspector with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “We suggest that people who are going to be spending any time outside this evening, or in the overnight hours, make sure that they prepare for the conditions. That means dressing in layers and protecting exposed skin.”
Even though temperatures won't be as bone-chilling as London experienced last month, it will still be cold enough to cause serious damage including frostbite, according to the health unit. Symptoms include skin turning red, blue, or in later stages, a grey/white colour. Anyone who suspects they have frostbite is advised not to rub the affected area but to warm it by placing it next to warmer skin or immerse in warm, not hot, water. It can take up to 60 minutes to re-warm the frostbitten area.
The cold conditions also increases the risk of hypothermia, which takes hold when a person’s internal body temperature drops below normal. Symptoms can include pale skin, drowsiness, confusion, and hallucinations. Severe cases can cause a loss of consciousness, shallow breathing, and a hard to detect pulse. Anyone exhibiting these symptoms should be taken for immediate medical treatment.
Health officials are also advising agencies that assist London’s homeless population to prepare for an increase in demand for services. Anyone who spots someone who is outdoors and in distress due to the cold is urged to call London CAReS at 519-667-2273 or 9-1-1 if it is a medical emergency.
A list of warming centres in the City of London can be found by clicking here.
The Cold Weather Alert will remain in effect until Tuesday afternoon.
