Cold weather alert issued for Hamilton

The City of Hamilton has issued a late winter cold alert with temperatures set to plunge below -20 degrees tonight.

The city Health officer Dr. Elizabeth Richardson, announces a cold alert anytime temperatures are expected to fall below -15 degrees, or -20 with the wind chill. These alerts remain in effect until the city announces a cancellation order.

Per Environment Canada, temperatures are expected to fall to -13 degrees overnight on Feb. 23. Winds are set to roar through the city at up to 50 km/h. As a result, the wind chill will make things feel closer to -22.

“Exposure to cold weather can be harmful to your health. Wind always makes it feel colder, and increases the risk of frostbite and hypothermia,” the city wrote, “During extreme cold weather conditions, please call, visit, or check on vulnerable family, friends, and neighbours.”

Hamilton Recreation Centres and Hamilton Public Library branches are available as warming spaces as part of the city’s winter response. The open hours of these facilities have been extended until March.

The city has also invested in 180 shelter drop-in and warming spaces for unhoused residents. They also rolled out a warming bus with space for 20 people. These services are independent of the cold alert system and are available regardless of temperature.