A yellow winter storm as well a cold alert is in place for the Durham, according to Environment Canada.
Bitterly cold conditions continue into Saturday January 23. The wind chill values near -30°C to -33°C.
Extreme cold puts everyone at risk. Watch for cold related symptoms: shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle pain and weakness, numbness and colour change in fingers and toes, the weather agency said.
And cover up. Frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin, especially with wind chill. Check on older family, friends and neighbours. If it’s too cold for you to stay outside, it’s too cold for your pet to stay outside, it said.
Outdoor workers should take regularly scheduled breaks to warm up, it added.
Winter Storm
Environment Canada said snow is likely beginning on Sunday. Snowfall amounts of 20 to 30 cm are expected. Locally higher amounts are possible. Visibility near zero at times in blowing snow with winds gusting to 50kmh, southern Durham.
By Sunday afternoon, snow is expected to become more widespread in southern Durham as a broader system moves into the area. As this occurs, lake enhancement is likely, which will lead to locally higher snowfall amounts in certain areas.
Roads and walkways may be very difficult to navigate. Visibility may be suddenly reduced to near zero at times. Travel delays and/or cancellations are possible.
Allow extra time for travel. Prepare for possibly prolonged disruptions to transportation, services, and utilities.
Durham Prepares
By late night yesterday, at least Pickering, Ajax and Oshawa, had declared a significant or winter weather event which triggers enhanced snow clearing operations, emergency services alert and setting up of warming centres.
The Town of Ajax is opening an emergency overnight warming space at Ajax Town Hall, Council Chambers Lobby for the duration of the cold weather alert in effect for Ajax and Durham Region. This space will be open from 7 pm to 7 am starting January 23 and will remain open nightly until the cold weather alert is lifted. Access to the space is available through the Council Chambers entrance (65 Harwood Ave. S.).