The City of Hamilton’s medical officer of health has issued a cold weather alert due to dropping temperatures expected Wednesday night. When temperatures reach –15 degrees Celsius, or –20 with the wind chill, a cold weather alert is triggered. On Wednesday night, temperatures are forecasted to dip to –12 degrees Celsius, feeling like a chilling –20.
Cold weather can pose serious health risks. Wind makes it feel even colder and raises the chances of frostbite and hypothermia. Residents are urged to check on vulnerable friends, family, and neighbors during these harsh conditions.
To help those in need, the City has coordinated with community agencies that support vulnerable populations, including those experiencing homelessness. Hamilton’s recreation centers and library branches are available as warming spaces during operating hours, and some overnight facilities are also open.
Snowfall Warning
Environment Canada has warned that significant snowfall is on the way, with Hamilton, Burlington, Brantford, and the Niagara Region expecting between 10 to 20 centimeters starting Wednesday night. A yellow snowfall warning indicates potential localized impacts from heavy snow, which can reduce visibility and create local blowing snow.
The snowfall is predicted to continue through Thursday afternoon, tapering off in the evening. A significant drop in temperature combined with snow will create challenging travel conditions. It’s essential to prepare for possible delays during rush hour as roads may quickly become treacherous.
As of now, national meteorological data shows that winter weather patterns are becoming more intense in various regions, with increasing instances of severe cold snaps and snowfall. According to recent statistics, cities across Southern Ontario have seen a rise in days with extreme cold, underscoring the importance of taking precautions during this season.
By staying informed and helping each other out, we can all navigate these winter challenges more safely together. For more details on the weather alerts, visit Environment Canada.
