Yeah, you can technically get outside today, but for the love of all that is holy, layer up like you're preparing for an arctic expedition. It's a "bundle up or regret it" kind of day.
- It's bitter out there, folks. Halton Region's still got a Cold Warning in effect, meaning frostbite and hypothermia are real risks, especially if you're out huffing and puffing.
- Air quality is moderate thanks to ozone, so if your lungs are easily annoyed, maybe stick to some indoor drills.
- The roads and sidewalks might look clear, but with temps like these and recent snow, black ice is practically guaranteed to be lurking.
Cold Comforts and Construction Zones
Let's be real, Oakville. It's February, and the weather's doing its usual Canadian thing: clear skies masking a deep, bone-chilling cold. We're sitting at a balmy -5.5°C, but with the wind, it feels more like -11°C. Halton Public Health didn't issue that Cold Warning on February 24th just for kicks; they meant it. That warning is still active until the mercury decides to climb back above -15°C without wind chill, which, let's face it, isn't happening today. If you're planning on hitting the Sixteen Mile Creek Trail, consider those exposed sections along the creek – the wind rips through there. Hypothermia isn't just for Everest climbers; it's for poorly dressed Oakville runners too.
What's in the Air?
Pollen's still playing nice, thankfully. It's "Low," which is a small victory. However, our Air Quality Index is sitting at a "Moderate" 72, with ozone being the dominant pollutant. Now, for most of us, that's fine. But if you're someone who feels it in your chest after a good sprint when the AQI creeps up, today might not be your personal best kind of day. Don't push it if you feel any extra tightness.
Current Hazards & Annoyances
Extreme Cold Risk: A Cold Warning is active across Halton Region. Dress in layers, cover all exposed skin, and keep your outdoor time in check to avoid frostbite and hypothermia.
Icy Patches: With temperatures well below freezing, watch out for black ice, especially on shaded paths, bridges, and any areas where recent snow has melted and refrozen. The Town of Oakville was still doing snow clearing as of yesterday, so some paths might be uneven.
Downtown Detours: If your route takes you through downtown, remember the Towne Square reconstruction is in full swing. Pedestrian access to businesses is apparently "maintained," but expect construction vehicle traffic from Robinson Street and general disruption around George Street and Lakeshore Road. Your scenic waterfront run might get a bit more industrial than usual.
And just a heads-up, the big Costco build on Wyecroft Road is in demolition phase, with major construction slated to kick off in spring. While it's not directly affecting your trail run today, expect more traffic and ongoing roadwork in that west Oakville area if you're driving to your starting point. Infrastructure upgrades are already underway on South Service Road West.
Pollen Breakdown (Because someone always asks)
| Pollen Type | Level |
|---|---|
| Tree | Low |
| Grass | Low |
| Ragweed | Low |
| Mould | Low |
Data grounded with Oakville News from February 26, 2026.