When does frostbite become a threat? What to know during the deep freeze – National [Video]

Frostbite is becoming a real threat across parts of Canada as extreme cold grips the regions, forcing people to bundle up in heavy layers and limit time outdoors to avoid the bone-chilling temperatures.

Although the definition of extreme cold varies across Canada depending on the local climate, Health Canada warns that any significant drop below normal temperatures can make staying safe and warm a serious challenge.

“In general, your risk of health effects like windburn and frostbite increases at wind chill values below -27 C,” Health Canada stated on its website.

Even if the temperature isn’t dipping into the -20 C range, the wind can make it feel much colder. The wind chill index, which measures how cold it feels on exposed skin based on wind speed, can cause your body to lose heat faster and your skin to freeze in a matter of minutes, Health Canada warned.

This is when the risk of frostbite skyrockets. It can develop within minutes …