Lambton County’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Karalyn Dueck, has issued a Cold Weather Alert for the region as very cold temperatures are expected overnight.
Environment Canada’s forecast shows temperatures dropping to minus 15 degrees Celsius or colder. The alert is expected to remain in place until Sunday, January 25th. Lambton Public Health notes that a formal notice will not be issued when the alert ends.
Cold Weather Alerts are put in place when temperatures reach minus 15 degrees Celsius or lower, when a wind chill warning is issued, or when extreme winter conditions such as blizzards or ice storms are expected.
Residents are reminded to take steps to stay safe in the cold. This includes dressing in warm layers, covering exposed skin such as the head, neck, and face, and limiting time spent outdoors. Spending too much time in the cold can be dangerous and even life-threatening.
Public Health warns about hypothermia, which happens when the body temperature drops below normal. Symptoms can include pale skin, extreme tiredness, confusion, heavy shivering, and hallucinations.
More information about cold weather risks, including hypothermia and frostbite, is available on the Lambton Public Health website.
Anyone who is experiencing homelessness, or knows someone who is, can contact Lambton County Social Services at 519-344-2062 during regular business hours. After hours, help is available through Good Shepherd’s Lodge at 519-344-1679.