Midwestern Ontarians will need to bundle up throughout the weekend.
Environment Canada has issued a yellow-level cold warning for the region with a prolonged period of very cold wind chills expected Friday night into Saturday morning and Saturday night into Sunday morning.
The national weather agency is forecasting the temperature combined with the wind chill will make it feel between minus 30 and minus 35.
"Extreme cold puts everyone at risk," Environment Canada said. "Risks are greater for young children, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, people working or exercising outdoors, and those without proper shelter. "
People spending time outdoors are advised to dress in layers to protect against the cold. Cold related ailments such as Frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin. Symptoms can include colour changes on fingers and toes, pain, numbness, a tingling sensation, or swelling. Other signs of cold related illness are a shortness of breath, chest pain, and weakness. Anyone who experiences these should move indoors to warm up. Pets should not be left outside in the extreme cold.
The frigid conditions will come after a low pressure system packing up to 8 centimetres of snow moves through midwestern Ontario Friday, ushering in strong northwesterly winds. The winds could gust up to 80 kilometres an hour.
"[This] will lead to widespread blowing snow and significantly reduced visibility. Visibility may even be near zero for wind-prone and exposed areas," Environment Canada added.
A yellow-level blowing snow advisory is expected to remain in effect for the region through Friday night and possibly into Saturday morning.
The wintry weather led to numerous school bus cancellations in Huron, Perth, Grey, and Bruce counties. The full list can be found by clicking here.
West Region OPP are reminding drivers to slow down, drive according to the road and weather conditions, turn entire headlighting systems on, and to maintain a safe following distance.
"Get to where you are going safely, but more importantly get home safely to your family without becoming involved in a crash," said Sgt. Ed Sanchuk.
