Cold weather alert
Peterborough Public Health issues frostbite warning as winter temperatures plunge
Peterborough Public Health has issued its second frostbite alert of the season.
The alert, which covers the city and county, Curve Lake First Nation and Hiawatha First Nation, comes as temperatures plummet post-Christmas.
Nightly lows, with wind chill, are expected to hit -28 C this week, and will start to rise after Friday - but will still be cold.
Extreme cold poses a risk to babies, seniors, people with circulatory problems and the homeless. Cold-related illnesses can include hyoothermia (shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling or uncoordinated movements, memory loss and slurred speech); and frostbite (white/grey skin area, unusually firm or waxy skin, numbness).
Temperatures are expected to hit a high of -13 on a cloudy Wednesday, with a windchill making it feel like -28, Environment Canada reports. That continues into the nighttime, with the low hitting -28.
Thursday will see sunny skies with a high of -19 and a low of -27 at night.
On Friday, expect a high of -17 with a mix of sun and cloud, with a chance of flurries at night and a low of -19.
The weekend will see temperature highs at -13 Saturday and -14 Sunday, with a the chance of flurries.
Tips from Peterborough Public Health:
Check face and extremities n frequently for signs of frostbite. Exposed skin can freeze in as little as 10 to 30 minutes.
Consider re-scheduling outdoor n recreational activities, especially during the evening. There is a serious risk of hypothermia and frostbite if outdoors for long periods.
Use caution when shoveling n snow especially for those that have heart, respiratory (breathing) problems or other medical conditions. Snow shoveling is strenuous and can cause an onset of heart or respiratory problems.
Check on the elderly or people n with disabilities living alone.
Dress in layers with a windresistant n 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 n and scarf in cold weather. Be sure to cover your nose to protect it.
If you get wet, change into dry n clothing as soon as possible. You lose heat faster when you’re wet.