The extreme cold weather alert issued for the city of Toronto will remain in effect for the weekend.
The Medical Officer of Health issues the alerts when Environment Canada forecasts a temperature of -15 °C or colder or a wind chill of -20 or colder.
Seasonal-temperatures are expected to return on Monday and the mercury is forecasted to be above zero by Tuesday.
The alert is in effect until further notice.
The city has issued some tips for residents during an extreme cold weather alert:
• Dress in layers, making sure your outer layer is windproof, and cover exposed skin.
• Wear a hat, warm mittens or gloves, and warm boots.
• Stay dry. Your risk of hypothermia is much greater if you are wet.
• Choose wool or synthetic fabrics for your clothes instead of cotton, because cotton stops keeping you warm once it gets wet.
• Seek shelter if you normally spend long periods outside. Depending on the wind chill, exposed skin can freeze in minutes.
• Drink warm fluids, other than alcohol.
• Warm up by taking regular breaks in heated buildings when enjoying winter activities outside.
• Consider rescheduling outdoor activities, or limiting time outdoors, during colder temperatures, especially if it's windy.
• Heat your home to at least 21ºC if infants or elderly people are present.
• Call or visit vulnerable friends, neighbours and family to ensure they are not experiencing any difficulties related to the weather.