Extreme cold warning for Hamilton, Niagara with wind chill making it feel like 38

Hamilton and the Niagara Region are under an extreme cold warning with a wind chill that could make it feel like 30to38Monday morning.

Environment Canada says the temperature will fall to near20 C tonight, with light winds and the wind chill making it feel closer to25 or30.

A slightly warmer air mass is expected to move into the areaTuesday.

The weather authority warns young children, the elderly, people with chronic illnesses and those working, exercising or staying outdoors without proper shelter are at a higher risk during extremecold.

People are cautioned to cover up as frostbite can start developing on exposed skin within minutes, especially when wind chill is factored in.

"If it's too cold for you to stay outside, it's too cold for your pet to stay outside," added Environment Canada in its weather warning.

Cold weather alert

Hamilton's Medical Officer of Health has also issued a cold weather alertfor the city and is warning the weather and wind can increase the risk of hypothermia.

Residents are asked to check in on vulnerable family members, friends and neighbours during extreme cold.

People looking to warm up can visit Hamilton recreation centres during regular hours and the MacNab Transit Terminal until the end of HSR service.

Anyone who wants to report the location of a person in need of shelter is asked to call the Salvation Army at905-527-1444 ext. 0.