Bitter arctic cold grips Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario

Saskatchewan and Manitoba

An entrenched mass of Arctic air is bringing dangerously cold conditions across Saskatchewan and Manitoba, with extreme temperatures expected to persist through the weekend.

Overnight lows have fallen to -35 to -40, with little relief during the daytime. High temperatures today are expected to struggle to reach -25, while some areas may fail to climb above -30. Temperatures are forecast to drop back into the -30s overnight and remain bitterly cold through Saturday and Sunday.

The extreme cold is being accompanied by dangerous windchill values between -40 and -50, significantly increasing the risk of frostbite. While windchill values may improve slightly during the day, extreme conditions are expected to return overnight and again Saturday night across much of the region.

Conditions are expected to slowly moderate early next week. However, temperatures are forecast to remain below seasonal norms, with another push of colder air possible by mid-week.

Far Northern and Northwestern Ontario

A prolonged cold event is expected to begin Friday and last through at least Sunday, with the possibility of extending into Monday. Wind chill values between -40 and -45 are forecast across much of the region, with only slight moderation during the day on Friday before conditions worsen again overnight. Officials say the risk of frostbite and hypothermia will be very high for anyone outdoors without proper protection.

Northeastern and Far Northeastern Ontario, North of Lake Superior

Cold conditions are also expected to affect northeastern Ontario starting Friday and continuing into Saturday, with the potential to last into Sunday near James Bay. Windchill values of -35 to -40 are forecast, creating a high risk of frostbite and hypothermia during prolonged outdoor exposure.

Parts of Northeastern and Southern Ontario

Additional cold hazards are expected across parts of southern and northeastern Ontario on Friday. Windchill values of -25 to -30 are anticipated in southern areas, while parts of northeastern Ontario could see windchills near -35 as temperatures gradually fall throughout the day. Prolonged exposure could lead to frostbite or hypothermia without adequate cold-weather gear.

Residents are advised to limit time outdoors, dress in layers, and monitor local forecasts as conditions evolve.