ATHABASCA — After months of mild weather, Environment Canada is warning Albertans to batten down the hatches as an extreme cold snap is expected to hit a large majority of Western Canada.
At 3:15 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 10, an extreme cold warning was issued for the regions of Westlock, Barrhead, and Athabasca. According to the warning, temperatures are expected to drop as low as approximately -40 C overnight with windchill.
Environment Canada said the coldest temperatures for the region are expected Saturday morning. Daytime lows are predicted to reach -40 C, and with windchill temperatures will approach -50 C.
Next week temperatures are forecast to rise slightly, but according to the warning, certainty is low for warmer weather and below-average temperatures are expected to continue.
Extreme cold weather poses greater risks to older adults, individuals dealing with chronic illnesses, and young children. Those working or exercising outdoors are also at heightened risk, as are members of the region’s unhoused population.
Warnings have also been issued for the Wabasca, Slave Lake, Morinville, Lac La Biche, Hinton and Whitecourt areas.
Environment Canada has recommended anyone outside cover up well to prevent frostbite, which can develop within minutes on exposed skin. The warning also noted any outside pets should be provided with shelter while extreme temperatures continue.
For a list of all active weather alerts across Canada and to stay up to date on the current extreme cold warnings, visit the Government of Canada’s website. To report extreme weather, email [email protected], or tweet using the hastag #ABStorm.
