25 Jan 2019 | 11:10 PM UTC
Canada: Extreme cold forecast in several provinces January 25-31 /update 1
Periods of extremely cold temperatures forecast in several Canadian provinces beginning on January 25; arctic air to last at least until January 31
Event
Periods of extremely cold temperatures are forecast for much of Canada, from Saskatchewan to Québec provinces, from Friday, January 25, to Thursday, January 31. Environment Canada warns of temperatures of -35°C (-31°F) in northern Manitoba province and northwestern Ontario province, with wind chills ranging from -40°C (-40°F) in southern portions of Ontario to -50°C (-58°F) in northern Québec. On Friday morning, weather officials also issued a winter weather advisory for Toronto (Ontario province) and its environs due to the potential for heavy snowfall totaling up to 25 cm (10 in) and high winds. Snow is also forecast in parts of Alberta province to Québec province from Sunday, January 27, to Tuesday, January 29. Transportation disruptions, including flight delays and cancelations and adverse driving conditions, are possible.
Context
According to Environment Canada, the extreme temperatures are caused by low pressure system of arctic air that sometimes travels south, in an event commonly known as a "polar vortex." Officials recorded lows of -24°C (-11°F) in Hamilton (Ontario province) and -26°C (-15°F) in London (Ontario province) during the so-called Polar Vortex of 2014.
Advice
Individuals in Canada are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate transportation disruptions (e.g. flight delays and cancelations, icy roads, limited visibility), refrain from unnecessary travel, and keep sufficient food, water, and warm clothing if driving in the region.
