Hazardous Wind Chill as Temperatures Plunge
Current Conditions: -23°C with Severe Wind Chill
SIOUX LOOKOUT, ON – Sioux Lookout is currently grappling with extreme cold, as temperatures hit -23°C early this morning, and the wind chill makes it feel like an icy -34. The extreme cold warning issued for the area remains in effect, indicating that residents should prepare for severe weather conditions.
Today’s Forecast
- Mainly Cloudy with Flurries: There’s a 40 percent chance of flurries throughout the day, under mainly cloudy skies.
- Wind and Temperature: Northwest winds are blowing at 20 km/h, gusting to 40 km/h. The high for today is expected to be -21°C. However, the wind chill is significantly lower, dropping to -38 this morning and -32 in the afternoon.
- Frostbite Risk: There is a considerable risk of frostbite under these conditions, particularly in the morning.
Tonight’s Outlook
- Partly Cloudy: The skies will be partly cloudy, with the wind coming from the west at 20 km/h and gusting to 40 km/h.
- Temperature and Wind Chill: The low will reach -28°C, but the wind chill will be even more severe, feeling like -33 in the evening and dropping to -41 overnight.
- Rapid Frostbite: Frostbite can occur within minutes, so residents are advised to take all necessary precautions.
Monday’s Weather
- Sun and Cloud with Light Snow: The day will see a mix of sun and cloud, with periods of light snow beginning late in the morning.
- Wind and Temperature: Westerly winds at 20 km/h and a high of -22°C are expected. However, the wind chill will make it feel as cold as -41 in the morning and -33 in the afternoon.
- Continued Frostbite Risk: The risk of frostbite remains imminent throughout the day.
Health and Safety Precautions
- At-Risk Groups: The risks are higher for young children, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, outdoor workers, and those without adequate shelter.
- Symptoms to Watch For: Keep an eye out for symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle pain and weakness, numbness, and color change in fingers and toes.
- Dressing for the Cold: Dress warmly in layers, with the outer layer being wind-resistant. It’s essential to cover up to prevent frostbite.
- Community Check-In: Check on older family, friends, and neighbors who may be vulnerable in these conditions.
- Pet Safety: Remember that if it’s too cold for you, it’s also too cold for pets.
Weather Trivia
Did you know? Sioux Lookout is known for its cold winters, and one of the lowest temperatures ever recorded here was -44.4°C on January 18, 1976!
