Cold nights ahead but some sunshine in the forecast

Some cold nights are in store for Ottawa but we can also expect sunshine in the coming days.

Environment Canada's weather forecast for Ottawa calls for a cloudy Sunday with a chance of snow early in the afternoon and a high of minus 9 C, which is about three degrees colder than average for this time of year.

Overnight, expect a clear sky and a drop to an icy minus 21 C—about five degrees colder than average—with a wind chill of minus 25.

Ottawa Public Health issued a frostbite advisory on Sunday, its first of the season.

Monday's outlook is crisp and sunny with a high of minus 14 C.

Monday night's low is minus 17 C with a wind chill of minus 22, though the temperature should rise to around minus 12 C by morning.

Tuesday is also looking partly sunny with a few clouds and a high of minus 4 C, a bit closer to seasonal averages.

The weather could warm up to a high of 0 C on Wednesday, with flurries.

SYMPTOMS OF FROSTBITE

Look for the 4 "P"s of frostbite

• Pink - affected areas will be reddish in colour. This is the first sign of frostbite
• Pain - affected areas will become painful
• Patches - white, waxy feeling patches show up - skin is dying
• Pricklies - the areas will then feel numb

TIPS TO PREVENT FROSTBITE

• Get to a warm area before frostbite sets in. If it's too cold outside, consider staying indoors.
• Keep extra mittens and gloves in the car, house or school bag.
• Wear larger sized mittens over your gloves.
• Wear a hat.
• Wear a neck warmer to protect the chin, lips and cheeks. They are all extremely susceptible to frostbite.
• Wear waterproof winter boots with room for an extra layer of socks. Wear two pairs of socks - wool if possible.
• Make sure you are able to wiggle your toes in your boots. This air space around your toes acts as insulation.
• Avoid drinking alcohol.