Cold advisories have been issued for Sarnia-Lambton as wind chill values are expected to hover around -30 C this weekend.
Environment Canada issued a yellow cold warning and Lambton County's Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Karalyn Dueck, issued a cold weather alert on Friday. This marks the fifth cold weather alert to be issued by Lambton Public Health (LPH) since January 19.
The health unit said the alert is expected to remain in effect until Sunday, February 8, but may extend to Monday, February 9.
Environment Canada said the bitter cold is expected Friday night into Saturday morning, and wind chill values near - 30 C may return Saturday night and into Sunday morning.
Local agencies that provide shelter and assistance to those experiencing homelessness are being advised to prepare for an increase in demand.
A list of warming centres across the county can be found on the health unit's website.
Those experiencing homelessness can contact Lambton County Social Services at 519-344-2062, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. For after-hours assistance, contact the Good Shepherd’s Lodge at 519-344-1679.
Residents are also reminded to dress in layers, to shield exposed areas from the wind, and to limit the amount of time spent outdoors.
LPH said overexposure to cold can be hazardous and even life-threatening. Hypothermia can occur when the body’s temperature drops below the normal range between 36.1 C and 37.8 C. Symptoms may include pale skin, lethargy, confusion, excessive shivering, and hallucinations.
In the meantime, a yellow blowing snow advisory was also issued for Friday afternoon and into Saturday morning. The advisory was later upgraded to an orange blizzard warning for north and east Lambton.
