Bitter cold continues to grip Toronto as wind chills plunge to −35 tonight

Environment Canada has issued a yellow cold warning for Toronto and surrounding areas as temperatures are expected to drop overnight on Saturday.

Environment Canada has issued a yellow cold warning for Toronto and much of the GTA as temperatures are expected to feel as cold as −35 overnight, raising the risk of frostbite and cold-related illness.

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The national weather agency says a period of very cold wind chills will move through the region tonight into Sunday morning, with similarly dangerous conditions returning Sunday night into Monday. Officials warn that extreme cold poses a risk to everyone, particularly vulnerable populations and people spending extended time outdoors.

“Extreme cold puts everyone at risk,” officials wrote in the advisory. “Cover up. Frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin, especially with wind chill.”

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A closer look at today’s forecast

Today’s forecast calls for mainly sunny skies with northwest winds at 30 km/h, gusting to 50 km/h. The high is expected to reach -13 C, but wind chills will make it feel closer to minus 22 this afternoon, with a continued risk of frostbite.

Tonight, a few clouds are expected, with northwest winds at 20 km/h becoming light late in the evening. The overnight low is forecast at -22 C, with wind chill values near minus 30.

Who is most vulnerable?

Environment Canada warns that extreme cold puts everyone at risk, but the dangers are greater for young children, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, those without proper shelter, and anyone working or exercising outdoors.

Cold-related symptoms can include shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle pain and weakness, numbness, and colour changes in fingers and toes.

Outdoor workers are advised to take regular breaks to warm up, while anyone experiencing symptoms of frostbite should move indoors and begin warming immediately.

Officials say residents should continue to monitor weather alerts and forecasts as conditions evolve