Based on past data, researchers were able to determine two temperature thresholds that would trigger an alert to warn healthcare professionals.
Depending on the region, the temperature thresholds for a two-day cold wave causing an alert and related to excess mortality observed in the population vary between -15 °C and -23 °C during the day, and between -20 °C and -29 °C at night. The thresholds causing an alert and related to an excess of hospitalization in the population vary between -13 °C and -23 °C during the day, and between -17 °C and -30 °C at night.
Once the system is operational, it will use Environment Canada's forecasts and will take into account the reliability of these forecasts. The alert system also considers the effect of delays between exposure and observed health impacts. "Just because it was cold today doesn't mean that people die or go to the hospital on the same day. It takes several days to see the impact, longer than with high temperatures," he says.
A promising alert system
For now, these thresholds are the same throughout the winter period. The team is planning to improve the tool by adjusting thresholds according to the month. "A temperature of -15°C in December will not have the same effect on health as in February because the body has not yet adapted," says Professor Chebana.
The alert system currently considers the general population, but it could specifically look at higher-risk groups such as the elderly or those with respiratory problems. Researchers are also considering a specific feature applicable to tourism or the education sector, during school closures for example.
Currently managed by the INSPQ, the model will be integrated into its Système de surveillance et de prévention des impacts sanitaires des événements météorologiques extrêmes (SUPREME), a source of information on the impacts of extreme weather events on the health.
"Excessive mortality or hospitalizations caused by cold waves are not as well-known as for heat waves, even though their impact is high during the winter. This work, in collaboration with INRS hydrometeorological data modelling experts, will enable public health stakeholders to better monitor cold waves and implement appropriate interventions to prevent avoidable deaths or hospitalizations".