Southwestern Public Health issued a cold weather alert for St. Thomas, Ontario, starting February 12, 2026, as local temperatures dropped to dangerous levels. The health agency warns that temperatures could hit -17°C, while wind chills might make it feel as cold as -21°C.
These alerts are triggered whenever the air temperature is forecast to reach -15°C or lower, or when the wind chill hits -20°C or lower. Residents in the city of about 48,600 people are encouraged to limit their time outside and wear multiple windproof layers to avoid frostbite and hypothermia.
For those needing a place to stay warm, The INN at 10 Princess Ave offers a 24/7 emergency shelter for people 16 and older. The city also provides a daytime warming space at the Joe Thornton Community Centre from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. during these extreme weather events.
Health officials are also asking community members to check on elderly neighbours and others who may be at higher risk during the deep freeze. This safety alert will stay in effect until the weather warms up past the health unit’s safety levels.
