Dress in layers and stay dry during cold alert, Hamilton officials say

It's a day of high snowbanks and freezing temperatures in Hamilton, and thecity's medical officer of health has issued a cold weather alert.

Temperatures are expected to drop to -16 C overnight. Cold alerts areissued when current or anticipated weather conditions are at or below -15 C or -20 C with wind chill.

The city is reminding people to call, visit or check on vulnerable family friends and neighbours. The notice says the city hasnotified community agencies who work with vulnerable people and those experiencing homelessness.

Select community agencies are offering warm places as drop-in during cold alerts with COVID-19 precautions in place.Some recreation centres will also be open from 12 noon until7 p.mfor people who need to keep warm. A list is available online.

If you see someone who needs shelter, call theSalvation Army at 905-527-1444 ext. 0.

Schools were cancelled today, and Environment Canada predicted as much as 35 centimetres of snow would fall in Hamilton and Niagara.

The city recommends you do the following:

• Dress in layers of clothing. Keep inner layers dry. Wet clothing increases the risk of cold injury.
• Protect your face, ears and hands with a scarf, hat, and gloves.
• To protect your feet, socks must be dry. Wool is a good material to keep your feet dry.
• Drink warm fluids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Avoid strenuous exercise.

In-person evening classes are cancelled at Mohawk College and McMaster University. As forRedeemer University services,check the Redeemer App.

All Hamilton Public Library locations are closed, and Bookmobile stops are cancelled. Online programming is continuing as planned. Library staff are available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. via telephone, chat or email to answer questions.

More flurries are predicted on Thursday and Sunday.