After a mild start to winter, the cold temperatures have set into the region.
On Sunday afternoon, the Middlesex-London Health Unit (MLHU) issued the first cold weather alert of 2024. MLHU puts out alerts when temperatures are expected to drop to -15C or windchill values reach -20C.
In Strathroy and Western Middlesex County, windchill values plunged to -22C, prompting the alert. It will remain in effect all day, night, and into Monday.
For London and Eastern Middlesex County, the windchill is expected to meet the threshold by 5 p.m. and continue dropping overnight.
MLHU has several tips for people to protect themselves during extreme cold weather events:
Stay in heated buildings as much as possible, including your home, or public buildings such as malls, libraries, etc.
Dress in multiple layers of loose-fitting clothes when going outside and cover up all exposed skin
Drink warm fluids but avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, as they cause your body to lose heat more rapidly
Avoid strenuous exercise while out in the cold as much as possible
Know the weather forecast and avoid travelling when extreme weather is predicted
Prepare your home and car for winter
The health unit also suggests seeking medical attention if experiencing symptoms of frostbite or hypothermia.
A list of warming centres in the London area can be found here.
