Bomb Cyclone To Hit Eastern CanadaUncategorizedJanuary 4, 2018Environment Canada has released an extreme cold warning in effect for the most of Ontario today. They predict the temperature to reach lows of -35 to -40 degrees celsius with wind chill which will continue until the end of the weekend. This severe cold weather is caused by bombogenesis or a “bomb cyclone” which happens when cold air meets warm air. This creates a sudden area of low pressure, high winds and cold temperatures. While the weather gets increasingly cold, it is important to remember to prepare yourself for the worst. We at Pacific Insurance Broker Inc. have prepared a few tips to share with your family while it is freezing outside. Keep a bag of emergency supplies in the trunk of your car. This should include blankets, some non-perishable food, water, a set of warm clothes, towels, and a first aid kit. This could be useful if you find yourself stuck on the side of the road for extended periods of time. Set the thermostat to a reasonable temperature when you leave your home. Especially when going away for extended periods of time. If you will be away for more than 3 days, have a trusted person checkup on the house every few days so that even if something does happen, they will be able to mitigate the damage. No one wants to come home to a burst frozen pipe. Wear multiple insulating layers of clothes and try to reduce exposed skin. In -40 degree celsius weather frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin especially if exposed to wind. Keep your pets indoors. Take frequent breaks and do not over work yourself in the cold. If you must shovel snow or work outside, make sure not to over do it, especially if you have heart disease or high blood pressure. Your heart is already working hard due to the cold weather, and excess perspiration will increase heat loss.