Freezing Conditions Expected in Kingston and Surrounding Areas

Environment Canada is alerting residents about dangerously low temperatures on Friday and possibly Saturday night for western regions of eastern Ontario.

Cold weather warnings have been issued for the Kingston, Pembroke, and Bancroft areas.

According to the warning, Kingston and Belleville could feel as cold as -30 with wind chill, while areas further north may experience temperatures near -35.

The temperature on Friday night is predicted to be around -20 C in these locations.

The next couple of nights in Kingston should remain around that mark, but Pembroke’s overnight temperature could drop to about -25 C on Saturday and Sunday nights.

Ottawa’s wind chill is expected to feel a bit milder on Friday night.

A snow squall watch is also in effect for Pembroke and Bancroft along with almost all of western Quebec due to brief heavy snowfall expected to impact Ontario Friday afternoon and the Outaouais later in the evening.

How to stay safe

Health Canada recommends dressing in layers with a wind-resistant outer layer. It’s important to protect your extremities like hands, feet, ears, and nose while staying active to promote blood circulation.

The agency also suggests wearing sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm during sunny days like Saturday to shield your skin from windburn. They advise against consuming alcohol as it may give you a false sense of warmth.

Community responses vary depending on local regulations. Many towns encourage residents to seek warmth at public spaces such as libraries during the day. Some cities like Belleville and Cornwall have opened specific overnight warming centers.

In Kingston, the temporary overnight warming center has moved to the Salvation Army at 342 Patrick St., just north of Stephen Street. It operates from 9 p. m. until 8:30 a. m. on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights.

Cities including Ottawa have urged individuals who typically sleep outside to find emergency or transitional shelters, which has faced some criticism.

The City of Ottawa also maintains a map indicating places where people can warm up during extreme cold spells. Anyone looking for shelter information or trying to help someone out of the cold can call 311.

If there’s a medical emergency like hypothermia, call 911.

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