FORT SEVERN – WEATHER – Cold weather is returning to Ontario’s far north. An Arctic front has the region in its grasp with cold temperatures and wind chill in effect, bringing Environment Canada to put a weather warning in effect.
Extreme Cold Warning in effect for:
- Fort Severn – Washaho Cree Nation
- Peawanuk
A period of very cold wind chills is expected.
Temperatures are hovering in the mid minus thirty degree range this morning. The cold temperatures combined with westerly winds of 15 km/h are generating extreme wind chills of minus 45 this morning. The extreme wind chills will ease later this morning as temperatures gradually rise above the minus thirty degree mark.
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.
