The City of Markham is opening a number of warming centres in response to an extreme cold warning for Dec. 13 and 14 issued by Environment Canada.

Wind chill values are expected to fall to near minus 30 degrees in Markham beginning the late evening hours of Dec. 13 and expected to remain in effect until the morning of Dec. 14.

Extreme cold warnings are issued when very cold temperatures or wind chill creates an increased risk to health, such as frostbite and hypothermia, with the risks greater for young children, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, working or exercising outdoors and those without proper shelter and clothing.

Depending on the wind chill, exposed skin can freeze in minutes.

The city is advising residents to consider rescheduling or limiting time outdoors, especially if it is windy.

Under the Community Investment Strategy (CIS), York Region provides funding to Inn From the Cold Emergency Winter Shelter, and Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold Program.

During the coldest months of the year, both of these programs provide emergency overnight shelter, clothing and meals to adults 18 years of age and over.

For more information about Inn From The Cold, visit innfromthecold.ca or call 905-895-8889.

For more information about the Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold Program, call 416-948-6682 or toll free 1-877-338-3398.

York Region also funds the York Region Street Outreach Van, operated by Loft/Crosslinks. The van is a mobile service that travels throughout York Region, providing assistance to homeless and at-risk individuals. Van staff provide sleeping bags, warm clothes and referrals to shelter programs. The van operates seven days a week from 2 to 9 p.m