Extreme cold warning issued for Hamilton and surrounding areas with wind chill values near –30 expected

Environment Canada has issued an extreme cold warning for Hamilton, Brantford, Haldimand County and Norfolk County.

The weather agency said the areas can expect wind chill values near -30 on Tuesday and Wednesday morning.

"An Arctic air mass is bringing bitterly cold wind chills to the area. Temperatures are expected to moderate slightly today before becoming even colder tonight," said Environment Canada.

Temperatures are expected to go up by Wednesday afternoon.

Hamilton was expecting a high of -12 C Tuesday during the day with the wind chill making it feel like -26 and a low of -20 C, which will feel like -29.

The weather agency is asking people to watch out for cold symptoms like "shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle pain and weakness, numbness and colour change in fingers and toes."

In the cold warning, it also recommends people dress warmly in layers that can be removed if necessary.

Environment Canada also asks that people check in on older family, friends and neighbours and that pets are kept inside.

Niagara region under snow quall watch

Environment Canada also issued a weather alert for parts of the Niagara Region.

Heavy snow is expected in Niagara Falls, Welland, Fort Erie and Port Colborne and surrounding areas. 

The region could see 15 to 20 centimetres of accumulation, according to the weather agency.

Winds of up to 50 km/h could also cause blowing snow is some areas, according to the weather alert.

"Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow," said Environment Canada.

"Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve."