Environment Canada has cancelled the  extreme cold warning for the City of Ottawa.

The warning was issued February 12, 2015,  for Ottawa North, Kanata, Orleans,Ottawa South, Richmond, and Metcalfe. Environment Canada says the warnings are issued when cold temperatures or wind chill create an elevated risk to health such as frostbite and hypothermia.

The City of Ottawa's frostbite warning has been downgraded to a frostbite advisory.

Warning signs of frostbite (Source: City of Ottawa)

  • In the early stage (frost-nip), the affected skin becomes pale and will also tingle (this is caused by blood vessels constricting to conserve heat).
  • This is followed by burning and pain, and the skin may become white (superficial frostbite).
  • If the pain stops, it could mean the frostbite has become severe and is affecting deeper tissue (deep frostbite).

Treating frostbite (Source: City of Ottawa)

  • St. John Ambulance recommends to gradually warm the frostbitten part of your skin with body heat. An example would be to cover frostbitten toes or ears with warm hands.
  • Warm up frost-nipped fingers by breathing on them or placing them in a warm area of the body, such as the armpit, abdomen or groin.
  • Anyone suffering from deep frostbite is advised to seek medical attention immediately.

The cold weather and gusting winds are part of a cold front crossing southern Ontario.