Yellow cold warning issued for Windsor-Essex as bitter cold grips region

CTV Windsor meteorologist Gary Archibald talks about the coldest air of the year in the region.

Environment Canada has issued a yellow cold warning for Windsor-Essex, saying bitterly cold conditions are expected to persist through Saturday morning.

The weather agency says wind chill values near -30 to -33 Celsius are forecast, along with brisk winds gusting up to 50 kilometres an hour. Daytime temperatures are expected to remain cold, with conditions worsening this evening as temperatures fall further.

Windsor-Essex County Health Unit’s medical officer of health is also extending the Cold Warning for Saturday, Jan. 24.

Environment Canada warns the extreme cold poses a risk to everyone, noting frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin, particularly when combined with strong winds.

Residents are advised to dress in layers, cover exposed skin and limit time outdoors where possible. The agency is also urging people to check on older family members, friends and neighbours, and to ensure pets are not left outside in the cold.

Outdoor workers are advised to take regular breaks to warm up.

The warning is in effect for Windsor, Leamington and Essex County.