Meteorologists with Environment and Climate Change Canada have issued an Extreme Cold Warning for Whitecourt and surrounding areas.
The Extreme Cold Warning is in effect for:
- M.D. of Big Lakes near Swan Hills
- M.D. of Greenview near Fox Creek
- Woodlands Co. near Benbow and Windfall
- Woodlands Co. near Carson-Pegasus Prov. Park
- Woodlands Co. near Goose Lake
- Woodlands Co. near Whitecourt and Blue Ridge
- Yellowhead Co. near Edson and Sundance Prov. Park
- Yellowhead Co. near Peers and Niton Junction
Officials say extremely cold wind chill values near minus 40 are occurring. Wind chill values, however, are expected to moderate during the day, but extremely cold conditions may persist into the weekend. Residents are reminded that extreme cold puts everyone at risk. Risks are said to be greater for young children, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, people working or exercising outdoors, and those without proper shelter.
You’re encouraged to watch for cold related symptoms: shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle pain and weakness, numbness and colour change in fingers and toes. Residents are advised to dress warmly and dress in layers that you can remove if you get too warm. The outer layer should be wind resistant. Also, you’re reminded that if it’s too cold for you to stay outside, it’s too cold for your pet to stay outside.
To view all regions of Albert affected by the Extreme Cold Warning, visit https://weather.gc.ca/warnings/index_e.html?prov=ab.
