Environment Canada forecasts more Arctic air is on the way to parts of Northern and Eastern Alberta after a brief period of respite from the frigid temperatures that drained car batteries, prompted folks to curl up with extra blankets at bedtime and layer up clothing, while forcing the Alberta Electric System Operator to issue power grid alerts.
“We’re expecting the coldest temperatures and strongest winds to produce extreme wind chill values of near -40,” said Thomas Anderson, a meteorologist with Environment Canada.
“For the rest of the province, there’s a layer of cloud, Anderson explained, “Basically, the cloud acts as an insulating blanket, keeping temperatures more moderate.”
“It is looking like for tonight, skies do clear, which will allow for the temperatures to also drop for portions of the province that are not currently under an extreme cold warning, so the possibility remains that that warning will be expanded into more Central Alberta with the afternoon issue of the forecast,” Anderson said.
Frostbite can occur in minutes at such extreme temperatures, and Anderson warns folks heading outdoors to dress appropriately, including in layers while taking care to cover exposed skin.
Anderson reminds that one can stay up to date to the weather agency’s warnings and watches issued within the latest forecasts from Environment Canada.
