It takes a bit of hardiness to live year-round in Muskoka as our weather extremes bring their own challenges as much as rewards. While we have incredible ski and skating opportunities nearby, and plenty of other winter recreation waiting to happen on any given day, it’s important to plan ahead and be prepared for the weather. When temperature can get down below -30 degrees and snowstorms can suddenly blow in, the last thing you want is to be caught in the extremes.
The District of Muskoka is an excellent resource to turn to for keeping updated on weather watches & warnings and discover resources for your seasonal needs. Check out the following Extreme Weather facts and suggestions to help get through our Muskoka winter months.
Extreme Cold Warnings are released by the ECCC should the temperature drop to -35 degrees for at least 2 hours. When this occurs Warming Centres around the District will be opened to help those vulnerable to the cold. One place to keep in mind if you’re in Huntsville is the Canada Summit Centre which is open most days, often till midnight. Our libraries are another good option to seek out when you need warming up
Be prepared if the power goes out with an Emergency Home Kit of the essentials: flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food with can openers, utensils, first aid kit, medications, extra blankets, plenty of water and a transistor radio. Find a full list of emergency kits items at Simcoe Muskoka Health.
At home have a back-up heating option available, but do not use any kind of generator inside, instead rely on heaters approved for indoor use. You want to be warm if the power goes out, but you don’t want to be exposed to carbon monoxide, which can turn from dangerous to deadly in a matter of minutes. Be sure you have a working smoke and carbon monoxide alarm installed for an extra safety measure.
Dressing for the weather is key, hopefully, you have a full winter wardrobe on hand. Key accessories worth the investment include mufflers, mittens, winter boots, scarfs and down-filled parkas. Remember, when outside in extreme temperatures, frostbite doesn’t take long to set in.
Transportation and road conditions need to be taken into consideration during the winter season. If you use a bus, be sure you know snow routes. When driving, do so only when you must, take it slow, and leave plenty of space between you and other vehicles. Good winter traction devices and tires are a must. Have snow shovels and blowers along with de-icing agent on hand to take care of your drive too.
With a bit of preparedness and planning, you can enjoy all that winter has to offer in Muskoka. When it’s time to buy or sell your Muskoka home, cottage or condo, work with a team whose expertise you can rely on every step of the way. The Rick Wearing & Sandra Parrott Team are ready to give you the best experience when it comes to fulfilling your home dreams. Please call us at 705-788-3535 or email at info@WearingParrottTeam.com today!
This information is taken from sources deemed to be reliable. The Wearing Parrott Team does not guarantee accuracy; we recommend information be validated independently.