We’re barely into January and this winter season has already left us yearning for tropical getaways and the relatively balmy days of spring.
Terms like frost quakes and polar vortex are being tossed about in the media to explain what we’ve been experiencing. These phenomena are not new, but what exactly are they?
Frost quakes which some people in Ontario experienced in the past week are caused when saturated ground suddenly freezes, causing loud ‘quake’ sounds that can be alarming to people although they are not in fact dangerous. Check out this short video from Globe and Mail in which experts explain the science behind frost quakes.
Meanwhile, the reason much of Canada and the United States is in a deep freeze this week is because of something called a polar vortex. Essentially, it means that cold arctic air is making an unusual foray south to our region. You’ll find a more scientific explanation of polar vortex in this blog post, titled Go home, Arctic, you’re drunk.
Call it what you will, the bottom line is that it’s cold outside. It’s affecting everything from air travel to power grids, and causing pipes to freeze. It can be dangerous to spend extended periods of time outdoors so it’s a good idea to brush up on those first aid skills.
Check out these great tips to help prevent and treat frostbites and recognize the signs of hypothermia. Don’t forget to keep your car stocked with a vehicle emergency preparedness kit. We also encourage people to take care of one another and check in on vulnerable neighbours during this cold snap.
Stay warm, friends!
Terms like frost quakes and polar vortex are being tossed about in the media to explain what we’ve been experiencing. These phenomena are not new, but what exactly are they?
Frost quakes which some people in Ontario experienced in the past week are caused when saturated ground suddenly freezes, causing loud ‘quake’ sounds that can be alarming to people although they are not in fact dangerous. Check out this short video from Globe and Mail in which experts explain the science behind frost quakes.
Meanwhile, the reason much of Canada and the United States is in a deep freeze this week is because of something called a polar vortex. Essentially, it means that cold arctic air is making an unusual foray south to our region. You’ll find a more scientific explanation of polar vortex in this blog post, titled Go home, Arctic, you’re drunk.Call it what you will, the bottom line is that it’s cold outside. It’s affecting everything from air travel to power grids, and causing pipes to freeze. It can be dangerous to spend extended periods of time outdoors so it’s a good idea to brush up on those first aid skills.
Check out these great tips to help prevent and treat frostbites and recognize the signs of hypothermia. Don’t forget to keep your car stocked with a vehicle emergency preparedness kit. We also encourage people to take care of one another and check in on vulnerable neighbours during this cold snap.
Stay warm, friends!
