Kawartha Lakes and North Durham endure extreme cold over the weekend

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES/NORTH DURHAM: Kawartha Lakes and North Durham were hit by dangerously cold temperatures, over the weekend of February 7th and 8th, with overnight lows nearing minus twenty degrees Celsius. Wind chill values, during the early morning hours, made it feel closer to minus thirty to minus thirty-five degrees Celsius, prompting cold weather alerts from Lakelands Public Health and Durham Region Health.

Environment and Climate Change Canada continued to forecast frigid conditions, warning prolonged exposure to extreme cold can increase the risk of frostbite, hypothermia, and other cold-related injuries, particularly for people spending extended time outdoors.

“Temperatures have been persistently cold, and it’s important for everyone to take precautions when spending time outside,” said Julie Bromley, manager of emergency services and healthy environments, with Lakelands Public Health. She noted, extreme cold poses heightened risks, for: people experiencing homelessness, older adults, young children, and individuals with chronic health conditions. Ms. Bromley emphasized the importance of staying informed, dressing appropriately, and checking in on vulnerable neighbours.

Brock Mayor, Mike Jubb echoed those concerns, urging residents to look out for one another during the cold snap. He encouraged people to dress warmly, limit time outdoors when possible, and check on neighbours who may need assistance.

Health officials say, frostbite can cause pale, numb, or hardened skin, most often affecting fingers, toes, ears, and the nose. Hypothermia symptoms may include intense shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and difficulty walking. Severe cases of hypothermia require immediate medical attention.

Those at greater risk, during extreme cold, include: people without stable housing or reliable heat; older adults; infants and young children; individuals with chronic medical conditions; people taking medications or substances which affect body temperature; outdoor workers; those who rely on mobility devices; and newcomers, who may be unfamiliar with Canadian winter conditions.

Residents are advised to continue taking precautions as cold weather persists. Recommendations include: wearing multiple warm layers, with a wind-resistant outer shell; covering exposed skin; changing out of wet clothing promptly; ensuring home heating systems are working properly, and using carbon monoxide detectors. Community warming centres and other heated public spaces remain available for anyone in need.

In North Durham, outreach workers with Community Living Durham North’s Housing and Homelessness Support Program are available to assist individuals who require temporary shelter or are unable to access emergency shelters. They can be reached at 905-852-5919 or by email, at hhsp@cldn.ca.

Lakelands Public Health and Durham Region Health continue to monitor conditions and provide updates. Residents can sign up for WeatherCAN alerts for timely notifications, and more information on cold weather safety and local resources. This is available at LakelandsPH.ca/Cold.