Canada is preparing for an extreme cold snap, with wind chill temperatures plummeting to as low as -50°C. The frigid Arctic air is affecting much of the country, particularly Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and northern Ontario, prompting warnings from Environment Canada.
Weather Alerts and Impacts
Orange weather alerts have been issued across vast regions including all of Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Most of northern Ontario is also expected to experience severe cold conditions. The cold snap has already resulted in rural schools closing in Manitoba, where temperatures have dipped below -30°C and wind chills have reached below -40°C.
Community Response
- In Winnipeg, Main Street Project has seen a surge in demand at its 120-bed overnight shelter due to the extreme temperatures.
- Siloam Mission has responded by opening a 24-hour warming center, along with its regular overnight shelter.
- The Salvation Army in Saskatoon has added extra beds to its men’s shelter in anticipation of rising needs.
As conditions worsen, agencies are stepping up to provide necessary services to vulnerable populations. “Our volunteer foot-care nurses will check for frostbite or hypothermia,” shared Margot Ross from Siloam Mission.
Travel Disruptions
The cold has caused significant disruptions to travel plans. In Toronto, extra outreach teams have been deployed to encourage at-risk individuals to seek shelter. On Highway 11, Ontario Provincial Police reported a multi-vehicle crash that stranded motorists, necessitating their transport to warming shelters.
School Closures and Safety Precautions
In Regina, schools are closed, and warming buses are being operated to assist the homeless by connecting them with shelters. Residents throughout the affected regions are encouraged to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve.
Temperature Records and Weather Predictions
With the arrival of this Arctic air mass, cold temperature records are being set. For example, uranium City recorded -38°C on Friday morning, and Lucky Lake in Saskatchewan reached -36.5°C, breaking previous records. Meteorologist Danielle Desjardins indicated that while this high-pressure system is particularly strong, relief is expected starting Sunday.
As the weekend approaches, New Brunswick is also set to experience temperatures between -30°C and -37°C, with the coldest weather anticipated in the northwestern areas.
Residents are urged to monitor conditions and take precautions against the severe weather. The community response underscores the importance of safety and assistance during this harsh winter period.
