On January 13, 2026, the City of Timmins, in coordination with the Porcupine Health Unit, issued an Extreme Cold Weather Alert for Timmins, Ontario, warning that wind chill values could reach about −28°C as a mass of Arctic air moved through the region. The alert warned the conditions posed an immediate risk of frostbite and hypothermia for anyone exposed outdoors for even short periods.
Health officials from the Porcupine Health Unit urged residents to stay indoors as much as possible. If people had to go outside, advice included dressing in three layers — a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a wind-resistant outer shell — covering all exposed skin, and limiting time outdoors. (The Porcupine Health Unit later merged with the Timiskaming Health Unit to form Northeastern Public Health, effective Jan. 1, 2026.)
The alert emphasized heightened risk for people experiencing homelessness, seniors, and outdoor workers. To help those in need, the city’s main emergency shelter, Living Space, and local partners worked to ensure warming space and emergency shelter beds were available during the cold snap. Local officials also asked residents to check on neighbours, especially older or otherwise vulnerable people.
Local reporting and public statements noted the event came amid a broader national cold snap that strained shelter capacity in many communities and intensified planning discussions in Timmins about winter preparedness and shelter space. Mayor Michelle Boileau said the city was focused on readiness to protect the most vulnerable members of the community.
