GTA residents are coping with extreme cold as temperatures are expected to drop even more before the weekend.
The City of Toronto has issued an extreme cold weather alert as temperatures are expected to drop down to -20 C on Friday.
“Factoring in wind chill, Toronto may face temperatures up to -30 C,” Geoff Coulson, meteorologist for Environmental Canada said.
“It’s a good idea for people to stay inside if they can.” Coulson said.
Environment Canada has not issued any alerts yet however if temperatures drop before the weekend starts, they will be sending out a warning, Coulson said.
“It’s not as cold as this time of the year usually is yet, however this weekend may feel colder than normal for some people.” Coulson said.
Coulson also advises that “staying home is the best call to make, however if going outside is unavoidable everyone should layer up and wear as much protective gear as they can.”
The city of Toronto has also set up warming centres to vulnerable individuals and to those who may be experiencing homelessness. The centres offer warm beds and snacks to people who need them.
The four centers open as of Jan. 30 are:
- Scarborough Civic Centre
- Metro Hall downtown
- Mitchell Field Community Centre in North York
- Cecil Community Centre downtown
All four centres are open until further notice.
The total capacity as of right now is 142 spaces, however if someone arrives at a centre that is at capacity, assistance with transportation to another centre with open spaces will be provided, the city said in a media release.
The forecast for this weekend shows that there will be a 40 per cent chance of flurries on Friday and a low of -20 C.
Saturday is looking to be a little warmer as the high and low will only reach -3 C, according to Environment Canada’s weather report.
Humber students in Toronto on Wednesday said the cold is hard.
“I really don’t like the cold, it’s terrible,” said Kezlin Gabriel, a Community Integrations student at the North campus.
“In class time I bring my blanket to stay warm, and I bundle up when I go outside, but somehow I’m still freezing,” she said.
“I try to avoid going outside other than going to school. This weekend I’m going to stay home since its suppose to be much colder.” said Sarah Habtom, another student in the Community Integrations program.
“Getting to school and back is really tough but hopefully this weather will pass soon.”