Environment Canada issued a wind chill warning for the National Capital Region early this morning.
With temperatures near minus 25 combined with winds of 15 km/h the temperature felt more like minus 35.
Conditions have improved throughout the morning but the warning will remain in effect until Thursday as similar weather is expected overnight and through tomorrow.
Ottawa Public Health also issued a frostbite warning Tuesday night that will remain in effect until tomorrow morning.
Frostbite warnings go into effect in Ottawa when extreme weather is predicted, such as a blizzard or ice storm, or when a wind chill of minus 35 or colder is predicted, which can freeze skin in less than 10 minutes.
This morning Ottawa had an expected high of minus 22, making it the coldest day in eight years according to CBC Ottawa.
Ottawa residents should not stay outside for long periods of time without appropriate protection such as outer layers that protect from wind and wetness.
OPH also advises residents concerned about the safety of a homeless person, who are particularly vulnerable to cold weather, to call The Help for the Homeless Phone Line at 613-581-2626.