THUNDER BAY – WEATHER – (February 12 2015) – Most of Northwestern Ontario is buried under Extreme Cold Warnings.
From Kenora to Attawapisat the north is a cold place this morning. Thunder Bay, Fort Frances, Atikokan and along the north shore of Lake Superior in effect only the southern part of the region are the only places not under weather advisories.
For people venturing out on the winter roads, taking caution is advised. For those flying north ensuring that you have warm clothing is also advised.
Extreme Cold Warning in effect for:
- Dryden – Vermilion Bay
- Ignace – English River
- Fort Severn
- Sandy Lake
- Sioux Lookout – Pickle Lake
- Kenora
- Red Lake
- Attawapiskat
- Peawanuk
- Fort Hope
- Ogoki – Marten Falls
A prolonged period of very cold wind chills is continuing. The Weather Service predicts Wind chill values in the low minus 40’s may be expected for a significant time today due to cold air combined with northwesterly winds in the 10 to 20 kilometre per hour range.
Watch for cold related symptoms and complaints which include:
– Respiratory: shortness of breath, wheezing and cough
– Cardiovascular: chest pain and arrhythmias
– Circulation: colour change of finger and toes, pain, numbness and tickling sensation in extremities
– Muscle: pain, stiffness, swelling, restricted movement, weakness
– Skin: itching, pale.
If you experience these symptoms when exposed to the cold, move indoors and begin warming.
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.
