Grand Erie Public Health has activated a cold alert for Brantford-Brant and Haldimand-Norfolk regions, signaling very cold weather arriving Thursday. Authorities issue such notifications when temperatures drop below –15°C or wind chill hits –20°C across parts or all of the area.
At –15°C or colder, unprotected skin freezes in under 30 minutes, sharply raising hypothermia risks, officials warn.
Current and Forecast Weather
Brantford faces possible flurries today with a daytime high of –3°C and overnight low of –17°C. In Haldimand-Norfolk, expect a high of –3°C and low of –16°C tonight. The alert stays active until officials lift it.
Vulnerable Populations
Certain groups face heightened dangers from the deep freeze, including seniors, infants and young children, individuals with chronic conditions, those on specific medications, homeless residents, outdoor workers and exercisers, plus people in poorly insulated or unheated homes.
Preventing Hypothermia and Frostbite
To avoid cold-related injuries, Grand Erie Public Health advises:
- 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 without caffeine or alcohol to stay hydrated.
- Regularly checking on seniors and at-risk individuals to confirm their warmth and safety.
Residents should recognize early signs of frostbite and hypothermia for prompt action.
Emergency Shelter Options
Those needing immediate shelter can reach SOAR Community Services Emergency Shelter Intake at 1-888-621-0034, available 24/7 year-round.
Walk-in services operate at:
- 73 Murray Street, Brantford: 8 a.m. to midnight daily.
- 331 Dalhousie Street, Brantford: midnight to 8 a.m. daily.
Additional warm-up sites include:
- 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.
