Grand Erie Public Health has activated a cold alert for the Brantford-Brant and Haldimand-Norfolk areas, signaling very cold weather beginning Thursday. Authorities issue these notifications when temperatures drop below –15 C or wind chill reaches –20 across parts or all of the region.
In such conditions, unprotected skin can freeze in under 30 minutes, heightening the risk of hypothermia, officials warn.
Today’s forecast includes possible flurries in Brantford, with a daytime high of –3 C and overnight low of –17 C. Haldimand-Norfolk expects a high of –3 C and low of –16 C. The alert remains active until officials issue a cancellation.
Vulnerable Populations
Certain groups face elevated risks from the harsh cold, including seniors, infants, young children, individuals with chronic conditions, those on specific medications, homeless residents, outdoor workers and exercisers, and people in poorly insulated or unheated homes.
Preventing Hypothermia and Frostbite
To safeguard against cold-related injuries, health experts advise:
- Dressing in multiple layers, with an outer layer blocking wind and moisture.
- Covering all exposed skin using hats, mittens, or face masks.
- Consuming warm fluids free of caffeine and alcohol to avoid dehydration.
- Frequently checking on seniors and other at-risk individuals to confirm their warmth and safety.
Emergency Shelter Access
Those needing immediate shelter can reach SOAR Community Services Emergency Shelter Intake at 1-888-621-0034. Intake operates 24/7 year-round.
Walk-in options include:
- 73 Murray Street, Brantford: 8 a.m. to midnight daily.
- 331 Dalhousie Street, Brantford: midnight to 8 a.m. daily.
Warming Centers
Several providers have increased drop-in capacity for warming during winter:
- Rosewood House, 42 Nelson St.: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Salvation Army Booth Centre, 187 Dalhousie St.
- SOAR Community Services, 73 Murray St.: 8 a.m. to midnight.
- Blessing Centre, 7 Burnley Ave.: 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.
