With a prolonged extreme cold event in Southern Manitoba, health officials are issuing urgent warnings about the dangers of extreme cold weather. Temperatures are expected to plummet to record lows in many areas, bringing with it the risk of frostbite, hypothermia, and other serious health complications.
Extreme cold is not just uncomfortable, it can be life-threatening, according to officials.
Frostbite is a common danger in extreme cold. It occurs when skin and underlying tissues freeze, leading to numbness, discoloration, and potentially permanent damage. Fingers, toes, ears, and noses are most susceptible.
Hypothermia, a more serious condition, happens when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. This can lead to shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and eventually, loss of consciousness. If not treated promptly, hypothermia can be fatal.
Beyond frostbite and hypothermia, extreme cold can exacerbate existing health conditions. People with heart conditions are at increased risk of heart attack, as the cold puts extra strain on the cardiovascular system. Those with respiratory illnesses like asthma may experience worsened symptoms due to the cold, dry air.
Health officials are urging people to take precautions to protect themselves during this period of extreme cold:
- Dress in layers: Wear warm, loose-fitting clothing. A windproof outer layer is crucial.
- Cover exposed skin: Wear hats, gloves, and scarves to protect your face and extremities.
- Limit time outdoors: Stay indoors as much as possible, and avoid strenuous activity in the cold.
- Stay dry: Wet clothing can rapidly lower body temperature.
- Recognize the signs of frostbite and hypothermia: Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect someone is suffering from either condition.
In southern Manitoba, Environment and Climate Change Canada has continued the extreme cold warning saying “A prolonged extreme cold event continues over southern Manitoba, with most of the region experiencing extreme wind chill values of minus 40 degrees Celsius or colder this morning. While wind chill values may moderate slightly during the day, they are anticipated to return to extreme levels overnight throughout the week over portions of southern Manitoba. Overnight low temperatures are expected to approach minus 30 degrees Celsius, accompanied by winds ranging from 15 to 25 km/h, resulting in dangerously low wind chill values near minus 40 degrees Celsius.”
The national forecaster also reminds you that if it is too cold for you to be outside it is too cold for your pet to stay out.
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