Residents of Toronto and much of southern Ontario are being urged to prepare for a severe and dangerous cold snap this week, with Environment Canada issuing extreme cold warnings for the region. A powerful surge of arctic air is delivering biting wind chills that pose significant health risks.
Dangerous Wind Chill Values Forecast
Environment Canada has warned that wind chill values are expected to plummet to between -30 degrees Celsius and -40 degrees Celsius across a large swath of southern and eastern Ontario. The weather agency emphasized that these conditions are not merely uncomfortable but actively hazardous.
The primary danger is the rapid onset of frostbite. At these extreme wind chill levels, exposed skin can develop frostbite in a matter of minutes. Officials are advising everyone to limit their time outdoors and to cover all skin if venturing outside is necessary.
Widespread Impact Across the Province
The extreme cold warning is in effect for most of Ontario, highlighting the widespread nature of this arctic blast. The frigid air mass is moving across the province, bringing the season's most intense cold to major population centers, including Toronto.
This weather event, reported on January 13, 2026, serves as a stark reminder of Canada's harsh winter potential. The conditions echo a similar cold snap captured in a Canadian Press photo from February 3, 2023, showing a man walking through steam in the freezing Toronto air.
Essential Safety Precautions
Public health and safety officials are reiterating standard advice for surviving extreme cold. Key recommendations include:
- Dress in layers, with a wind-resistant outer layer.
- Cover all exposed skin, including fingers, ears, nose, and cheeks.
- Be aware of the signs of frostbite (numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin) and hypothermia (uncontrollable shivering, confusion).
- Check on vulnerable neighbours, seniors, and those without adequate shelter.
- Ensure pets are brought indoors or have proper, heated shelter.
With such severe conditions forecast, the message from authorities and weather experts is clear: take this cold warning seriously. Preparing your warmest parkas and winter gear is not just advice—it's a necessity for safety during this intense period of winter weather.
