SMDHU: Cold Warning and Information System (CWIS)
The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) monitors forecasts from December 1st to March 31st. SMDHU follows two cold notification processes. Cold Warning Alerts (-15ºC Enhanced Cold Notifications and Extreme Cold Warnings) are issued when temperatures are forecasted to reach cold warning criteria.
There are currently no cold notifications or warnings issued for Simcoe Muskoka. It is important to remember that even mild cold temperatures can affect health. Always take steps to stay dry and warm during the winter months.
SMDHU: Air Quality and Wildfire Smoke Exposure Information System
Air Quality alerts are jointly issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada and the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks when the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is forecasted to reach air quality levels in the high-risk category (7 or higher).
There are currently no air quality alerts issued for Simcoe Muskoka.
Extreme temperatures such as cold or heat, poor air quality, and wildfire smoke are a few examples of how our health and well-being can be impacted. With climate change, extreme heat, poor air quality events, and wildfire smoke events are becoming more common, we can provide you with information on what health risks might be present in the outdoor environment and how to reduce your exposure to them.
To help residents and visitors of Simcoe and Muskoka take protective action during extreme heat or poor air quality events (such as wildfire smoke events), the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit has implemented two notification systems. These notification systems can reduce health impacts by alerting the public about extreme heat events and/or poor air quality events, directing community responses and providing people with information on protecting their health. During regular business hours, the alerts are updated below.
For more weather information, visit Environment and Climate Change Canada, download the WeatherCAN app, or call Health Weather toll-free at 1-833-794-3556 (English) or 1-833-586-3836 (French).
