A cold weekend is expected in the Ottawa Valley and eastern Ontario, with a frigid forecast issued by Environment Canada. Concerns are rising for vulnerable populations as the region braces for the bitter weather.
Environment Canada has issued yellow-level cold warnings for most of eastern Ontario and western Quebec, with snowfall warnings in effect for Ottawa, Kingston, and other areas. Overnight temperatures are predicted to dip to around –30°C with wind chills of –40°C on Friday and Saturday nights in Ottawa, Gatineau, and Pembroke.
Saturday’s high of –18°C is lower than the typical overnight low for late January, and with wind chill, it could feel like –28°C. Sunday is expected to have similar temperatures, with heavy snowfall forecasted to begin in the afternoon, potentially accumulating up to 20 centimeters in Ottawa by Monday.
In Kingston, temperatures are forecasted to reach around –20°C, feeling like –35°C with wind chill. An overnight warming center has been arranged but the exact location has not been disclosed. Referrals are necessary for access, which some advocates believe is insufficient to accommodate the homeless population adequately.
John Decourcy, who has been living on the streets for nine years, described this winter as particularly challenging. He shared the difficulties of finding shelter and staying warm in extreme conditions. The risk of frostbite is heightened when wind chill makes it feel like –27°C or colder, according to Health Canada recommendations.
Community responses to extreme cold conditions vary, with some municipalities providing warming centers and shelters. It is advised to dress in layers, protect extremities, and avoid alcohol consumption to stay safe in the cold weather. Environment Canada advises caution while traveling due to anticipated snowy conditions.
