Temperatures hit -23 C on Sunday morning and felt like -29 C with wind chill, but are expected to rise to -10 C by the afternoon. It’s previous record of – 23 C was set in 1979.
Hydro-Québec notes that energy use is higher in extreme cold.
The extreme cold warning for Hamilton has ended, but you can still expect a cold Valentines Day in Steeltown.
Environment Canada issues extreme cold warnings when very cold temperatures or wind chill create elevate the risks of health issues such as frost bite and hypothermia.
If you are heading out on Saturday evening, brace for temperatures near -23 C with a wind chill near -34, Taylor said.
Outdoor workers, those living in poorly insulated homes, homeless individuals, seniors, infants and outdoor enthusiasts, are among the individuals at greater risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Existing shelters also loosened service restrictions to allow beds for more people.
Officials warned people to stay indoors away from the risky cold.
Emergency Warming Centre: The Elgin Street Mission will become an emergency warming centre and extend their regular hours of operation by remaining open 24 hours during an Extreme Cold Weather Alert.
Environment Canada says parts of northern Ontario will see wind chills as low as minus 45 today.
Saturday: Chance of rain or flurries, high 4 C.
The bone-chilling cold forced cancellation of events in New York City, including an ice festival in the city’s Central Park.