Grand Erie Public Health has activated a cold alert for Brantford-Brant and Haldimand-Norfolk regions, anticipating very cold weather beginning Thursday. Officials issue such notifications when temperatures drop below –15 C or wind chill reaches –20 in affected areas.
Health experts warn that at –15 C or colder, unprotected skin can freeze in under 30 minutes, significantly elevating hypothermia risks.
Current and Forecast Weather
Brantford faces possible flurries today with a daytime high of –3 C and overnight low of –17 C. In Haldimand-Norfolk, expect a high of –3 C today and –16 C tonight. The alert persists until officials lift it.
Vulnerable Groups
Certain populations face heightened dangers from the frigid conditions, including older adults, infants and young children, individuals with chronic illnesses, those on specific medications, people experiencing homelessness, outdoor workers or exercisers, and residents in poorly insulated or unheated homes.
Preventing Hypothermia and Frostbite
To safeguard against cold-related injuries, Grand Erie Public Health advises:
- Wearing multiple layers of clothing, with an outer layer blocking wind and moisture.
- Covering all exposed skin using hats, mittens, or face masks to ward off frostbite.
- Consuming warm fluids free of caffeine and alcohol to avoid dehydration.
- Frequently checking on elderly and vulnerable individuals to confirm their warmth and safety.
Residents should familiarize themselves with frostbite and hypothermia symptoms for early detection.
Emergency Shelters and Warm-Up Spots
Those needing immediate emergency shelter can reach SOAR Community Services Intake at 1-888-621-0034, available 24/7 year-round.
Walk-in services operate at:
- 73 Murray Street, Brantford: Daily, 8 a.m. to midnight.
- 331 Dalhousie Street, Brantford: Daily, midnight to 8 a.m.
Expanded drop-in warming centers include:
- Rosewood House, 42 Nelson St.: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Salvation Army Booth Centre, 187 Dalhousie St.
- SOAR Community Services, 73 Murray St.: 8 a.m. to midnight.
- Blessing Centre, 7 Burnley Ave.: 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.
