Toronto is under an extreme cold weather alert Thursday as temperatures are expected to plummet to their lowest depths so far this winter.

The City of Toronto issued the alert just after 7:30 a.m. The temperature was about -8C when it went into place, and isn’t expected to rise above -6C, according to Environment Canada.

Although the city’s transition to 2017 was mild, winter weather seems to have arrived. Environment Canada has also forecast a 40 per cent chance of flurries for Thursday.

There’s no snow in the forecast for Friday and Saturday, but the chilly temperatures are expected to stick around at least until Monday, according to Environment Canada. There’s also a chance of snow on Sunday and Monday.

North of the city, a snow squall watch is in effect Thursday morning for the northern York and Durham regions. Environment Canada warns that heavy wind and snow may make for treacherous driving conditions.

An extreme cold weather alert activates local services that help the city’s most vulnerable get inside and get warm. Those services include extra shelter beds and street outreach, among other things.

The City of Toronto recommends the public dress warm, stay dry and check on vulnerable friends, neighbours and family. It also asks Torontonians to call 311 if assistance is needed, or 911 if it’s an emergency.

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