Canadians are grappling with severe winter conditions as a polar vortex envelops much of the country. On Sunday, heavy snowfall and frigid temperatures led to significant disruptions, including power outages and flight cancellations. Environment Canada has issued orange alerts across several provinces, indicating that these extreme weather conditions pose serious risks to public safety.
Severe Weather Alerts Across Canada
Environment Canada has placed orange alerts in many jurisdictions due to predicted severe weather. This designation suggests that significant damage or health impacts are likely. In Saskatchewan, record low temperatures have affected various towns, prompting authorities to act swiftly.
Saskatchewan’s Cold Snap
- Many towns in Saskatchewan have reported record-breaking cold.
- Environment Canada warned that skin could freeze within minutes under these conditions.
- Saskatoon has activated its winter emergency response plan until Wednesday.
Ontario’s Heavy Snowfall
Ontario is anticipating up to 40 centimeters of snow. The cities of Hamilton, the Greater Toronto Area, and Kitchener-Waterloo have advised residents to remain indoors. Despite these warnings, over 50 car accidents were reported by the Ontario Provincial Police due to poor driving conditions.
- Over 60% of flights at Toronto Pearson Airport were canceled.
- Expected snow accumulation in Ottawa could reach 20 centimeters.
- Winter weather street parking bans have been implemented in several cities.
Quebec’s Power Outages
The Canadian Red Cross has opened an emergency shelter in Côte Saint-Luc, Quebec, after thousands of residents lost power during the cold spell. Hydro-Québec reported that thousands of homes were affected by outages resulting from equipment failures and other unknown factors.
- As of Sunday morning, 3,727 of 13,368 homes had their power restored.
- Restoration efforts are ongoing, and some areas may remain without power until Monday.
Challenges in the Atlantic Provinces
Newfoundland and Labrador are facing unique challenges as ice accumulation has affected energy production. The Bay d’Espoir power plant, the largest on the island, was shut down for the first time since 1967 due to frazil ice blockage.
- Efforts to remove ice at the plant have been ongoing and successful.
- Power conservation alerts are in effect to prevent further outages.
The severe winter weather gripping Canada highlights the importance of preparedness during such emergencies. Residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions as conditions develop.
