Cold Weather Advisory: Jan. 23, 2026
The Ottawa region is forecast to experience extremely cold temperatures the evening of Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, and into the weekend with temperatures as low as -35 degrees Celsius with the wind chill. Such conditions present increased risks to personal health and may result in damage to campus infrastructure. ÐÓ°ÉÔ´´ University urges all community members to exercise vigilance and take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety and the safety of others.
Safety Measures for the Campus Community
- Limit time spent outdoors during extreme cold conditions.
- Ensure that all exterior windows and doors remain fully closed to conserve heat and help prevent frozen pipes.
- Immediately report any building entrance doors that fail to close properly to Facilities Management and Planning (FMP) at FMP.Service.Centre@cunet.carleton.ca
- Report any signs of water leaks to FMP without delay.
- For urgent matters requiring immediate response, contact Campus Safety Services at 613-520-4444.
Health Risks Associated with Extreme Cold
Exposure to very low temperatures can lead to serious health effects, including:
- Hypothermia – A dangerous drop in core body temperature that can become life‑threatening without prompt medical attention.
- Frostbite – Freezing of exposed skin, particularly affecting the fingers, toes, nose and ears, which may result in long‑term tissue damage.
For any health concerns, call Campus Safety Services at 613-520-4444
Protective Measures for Individuals Working Outdoors
For individuals whose duties require outdoor work, the following precautions are strongly recommended:
- Dress in multiple layers of warm, insulating clothing, including a wind‑resistant outer layer.
- Keep all skin covered to reduce the risk of frostbite.
- Wear a hat, insulated gloves or mittens, a scarf or face covering and insulated, waterproof footwear.
- Stay dry by adjusting layers to prevent excessive sweating.
- Maintain physical activity to support body heat.
- Follow a structured work/rest schedule, ensuring breaks occur in a warm, sheltered environment.
- Consider postponing or cancelling outdoor activities when temperatures or wind chill values reach extreme levels.
Additional Resources
For further information and guidance, please consult the following resources:
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) – Working in the Cold:
City of Ottawa – Extremely Cold Temperatures Advisory:
Ottawa Public Health – Cold Weather Information: