Extreme cold warning in effect for eastern Ontario, western Quebec

© Justin Tang/The Canadian Press Friay will see a high of –25 C but will be feel like –43 because of the wind chill.

An extreme cold warning is in effect for all of eastern Ontario and western Quebec Friday morning.

The forecast for the Ottawa-Gatineau region will see a daytime high of –25 C, but with the wind chill will feel like –43.

The low Friday night drops to –31 C but the wind chill will stay consistent at –43.

Buses for English language schools in Ottawa, French schools, and English schools outside of Ottawa are experiencing delays or cancellations.

On Saturday, temperatures will rise but the wind will still be biting, with a daytime high of –14 C, and with wind chill values hovering around –40 in the morning before warming up (feels like –21) in the afternoon.

Environment Canada is warning that frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin under these conditions.

“Risks are greater for young children, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, people working or exercising outdoors, and those without proper shelter,” the agency said.

Health units are sharing warning signs of frostbite and how to dress for the weather, while communities such as Gatineau, Kingston, Ont., and Ottawa are offering lists of places to warm up and resources for people without homes.

After Saturday, it’ll return to the mild temperatures that have been a hallmark of this autumn and winter, with daytime highs forecast at or above 0 C Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.