BOW VALLEY – Temperatures are expected to drop to near minus 50 degrees Celsius with wind chills in the Bow Valley area in the coming days.
Environment and Climate Change Canada issued an extreme cold warning in response to the plunging forecast. The coldest temperatures are expected by Saturday morning (Jan. 13).
“Temperatures will drop between minus 30 and minus 37 C tonight with wind chills as low as minus 48,” stated the warning. “Over the weekend, morning temperatures will reach minus 40 C in many areas. Wind chills will approach minus 50.”
Environment Canada cautioned the cold snap presents an elevated risk of hypothermia and frostbite. It recommended those venturing outside dress warmly and in layers, with a wind-resistant outer layer.
According to to the weather agency, exposed skin can freeze in under 30 minutes when exposed to temperatures as low as minus 30 C. Frostbite can occur in less than 10 minutes at minus 40 C.
“Watch for colour changes on fingers and toes, pain, numbness, a tingling sensation, or swelling,” the warning advised. “If present, move indoors and begin warming.
Environment Canada said to also watch for cold related symptoms, including shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle pain and weakness.
“Risks are greater for young children, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, people working or exercising outdoors and those without proper shelter,” the warning stated.
About 2cm of snow is expected to fall in Canmore Thursday (Jan. 11), according to the forecast. No other precipitation is noted.
Temperatures are expected to improve early next week with Environment Canada forecasting a high of minus 18 C and a low of minus 25 on Monday (Jan. 15).
To continue monitoring alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada, visit: https://weather.gc.ca/city/pages/ab-3_metric_e.html.
