Bitter wind chill values of -35 and -40 expected in Ottawa

Extreme cold brought in by an Arctic air mass is prompting warnings of dangerous conditions and frostbite in the nation’s capital.

Environment Canada said the “bitterly cold” weather is set to begin by Friday evening and continue overnight. Wind chill values will make it feel like -35 and -40. This, the weather agency warns, puts everyone at risk.

People are being encouraged to watch for cold-related symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle pain and weakness, numbness and colour changes in extremities.

“Cover up. Frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin, especially with wind chill,” the warning reads.

Officials are also reminding people that if it’s too cold outside for people, pets should take similar precautions.

Ottawa Public Health said in a press release that infants, children, older adults and people experiencing homelessness are most vulnerable to these types of temperatures. Uncovered skin can freeze within as little as 10 minutes with a wind chill of -35, it notes.

There is also a risk of hypothermia for people outside for long periods of time. The health agency says people should wear multiple layers of clothing, covering all exposed skin.

For those experiencing homelessness, there are several drop-in centres, emergency shelters and the Salvation Army’s 24/7 Outreach Van in the city.

People can call 311 to get help finding the best shelter or can call for others who need transportation out of the cold.

Ottawa also has a map of resources across the city of spaces where people are welcome to warm up.