Updated: Thu Feb. 28 2008 5:32:43 PM

toronto.ctv.ca

An extreme cold weather alert has been extended for Toronto as the city endures its second straight day of bone-chilling temperatures.

The mercury remained below -10 C, but the wind chill makes it feel more like -25.

Officials warn residents to limit outdoor activity and bundle up as exposed skin can suffer frostbite in less than 10 minutes.

The alert triggers the city to open up an additional 80 emergency shelter spaces to help get the homeless out from the cold.

CAA reported an increase in the number of service calls, mostly for engines not starting and drivers locking keys in their car while warming up their vehicle.

The frigid conditions aren't expected to last, as forecasters are calling for a high of 1 C on Friday, but the system will bring between five and 10 centimetres of wet snow that should start after the morning commute.

With a report from CTV Toronto's Roger Petersen