About weather alerts

Oxford County Public Health issues heat and cold advisories to warn residents about weather conditions that may impact your health. Environment Canada also issues frequent text bulletins and weather warnings. This is a great resource to keep your eye on for weather alerts in your area.

Cold weather alerts

A cold weather alert is issued when current or anticipated weather conditions are at or below -15 degrees Celsius or -20 with a wind chill, or when there are extreme weather conditions, such as a blizzard or ice storm.

Remember, hypothermia is an emergency health condition that occurs when the body temperature drops too low, making it difficult to move and think clearly. Warning signs are shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech and drowsiness. Infants may have red, cold skin and very low energy. If you suspectd hypothermia, get medical attention immediately by calling 911 or going to the nearest Emergency Department.

Heat advisories

Oxford County Public Health issues a heat alert when one of the following occurs: 

1. The forecast is showing a humidex of 40° Celsius or higher (this index means the humidity and temperature combined give the sensation of a temperature of 40°C);
2. The humidex is forecast to rise to 36°C or higher, combined with an Environment Canada Smog Alert; or
3. When there are three consecutive days when the maximum temperature is 32°C or higher

Oxford County Public Health issues heat advisories through this website, its Facebook page, and on the Oxford County Twitter page.

Public Health reminds people that the combination of high heat and high humidity can be dangerous. Anyone who experiences physical distress because of extreme temperatures should seek medical attention immediately either by calling 911 or going to the nearest Emergency Department.