Brisk winds and frigid temperatures will return to the London and Middlesex County area this evening, bringing with them the risk of frostbite for anyone spending time outdoors tonight. Environment Canada’s forecast calls for overnight lows to drop to -18C with winds that will bring windchill values near -26, prompting the Middlesex-London Health Unit to issue a Cold Weather Alert. The alert will remain in effect into Saturday morning when temperatures climb somewhat to a daytime high of -10C. Even though ambient temperatures will climb above the MLHU’s threshold tomorrow, winds are expected to remain strong, which could result in rapidly changing temperature and windchill values, carrying potential health risks.
“Whether it’s a Knights game at Budweiser Gardens, or enjoying all Richmond Row has to offer with friends, Friday nights tend to be when many people spend some time outdoors; and dressing warmly isn’t often the first thing on their minds,” says Randy Walker, Public Health Inspector with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “We want people to think about their health first, so even if you’re only outside for a few minutes don’t take any chances. Make sure to dress in layers and that any exposed skin is covered to prevent frostbite.”
Frostbite can happen to uncovered skin that is overexposed to the cold, especially in damp and windy conditions. Symptoms include skin turning red, blue or in later stages, a gray/white colour. Individuals may experience pain, numbness and stiffness, especially in the fingers, toes, ears and nose, which are most susceptible to the cold. If you suspect frostbite, warm the affected area by placing it next to warmer skin or immerse in warm, but not hot, water. Do not rub the affected area, and seek emergency medical treatment for cases of severe, blistering frostbite. The re-warming process may take up to 60 minutes.
Extreme cold weather also brings a risk of hypothermia, which occurs when a person’s internal body temperature drops below normal. Symptoms can include pale skin, drowsiness, confusion and hallucinations. While individuals may shiver in the early stages of hypothermia, shivering may decrease as body temperature drops. In severe cases, individuals lose consciousness, their breathing becomes shallow and their pulse becomes irregular and hard to detect. Anyone with these symptoms requires emergency medical treatment in order to prevent coma or death.
The Health Unit is also advising local agencies that provide shelter and assistance to the homeless to prepare for an increase in demand for their services tonight.
If you see someone who is outdoors and in distress due to the cold, contact London CAReS at 519-667-2273. If you feel the situation is a medical emergency, call 9-1-1. To view a list a list of warming centres in the City of London, please visit www.london.ca.
Media Contact:
Dan Flaherty, Communications Manager, Middlesex-London Health Unit
519-663-5317 extension 2469 or 519-617-0570
Spokesperson:
Randy Walker, Public Health Inspector, Middlesex-London Health Unit