Key Takeaways
- Frigid temperatures and snow advisories are expected to impact Western Canada on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
- As much as 10 to 20 cm of snow is expected to fall in Central Alberta by Christmas morning
- Cold warnings are in effect for parts of Manitoba, Alberta, and Saskatchewan, with wind chills reaching -45 to -50 C
- The Yukon is experiencing extreme cold, with wind chills hitting -45 to -55 C, but temperatures are expected to rise by the weekend
- Environment Canada is advising drivers to adjust their travel plans to account for road conditions
Introduction to the Weather Conditions
Frigid temperatures are sweeping across much of Western Canada, bringing with them a host of weather advisories and warnings. As Christmas Eve and Christmas Day approach, residents of Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan are being cautioned to prepare for a snowy and cold holiday season. In Central Alberta, snow advisories are predicting as much as 10 to 20 cm of snowfall by Christmas morning, making travel plans a concern for those looking to hit the roads. Environment Canada is urging drivers to consider adjusting their travel plans to take into account the potentially hazardous road conditions.
The Cold Snap in Alberta and Saskatchewan
In addition to the snow advisories, cold warnings are currently in effect for parts of Manitoba, Alberta, and Saskatchewan. The extreme cold is expected to bring wind chills in some areas down to -45 to -50 C, making outdoor activities a significant challenge. The cold snap is not limited to these provinces, as parts of B.C.’s northern interior are also expected to experience wind chill values as low as -45 until mid-way through Christmas Day. The prolonged period of cold temperatures has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of residents, particularly those who may be vulnerable to the extreme cold.
The Yukon’s Extreme Cold
The Yukon is experiencing some of the most extreme cold temperatures in the region, with wind chills hitting -45 to -55 C. According to Derek Lee, a meteorologist with Environment Canada, the Arctic air has been building over the territory for the last week and a half. However, Lee notes that a change in the weather is on the horizon, with systems expected to roll through the Yukon in the coming days, bringing with them moisture and cloud cover. This will help to keep temperatures slightly higher than what is currently being experienced, although the cold is not expected to dissipate entirely.
Forecast for the Weekend
While the extreme cold is not expected to disappear entirely, temperatures in the Yukon are predicted to rise by the weekend. Lee notes that cloud cover is forecast to sweep over the territory, helping to keep in some warmer air and push temperatures up to the -35 to -40 range. This is still below normal for this time of year, but a significant improvement from the current temperatures. As the weather systems move through the region, residents can expect a slight reprieve from the extreme cold, although it is still important to take necessary precautions to stay safe and warm.
Conclusion and Precautions
As the holiday season approaches, it is essential for residents of Western Canada to take necessary precautions to stay safe and warm. The extreme cold and snowy conditions pose a significant risk to those who venture outdoors, and it is crucial to plan ahead and adjust travel plans accordingly. Environment Canada’s warnings and advisories are in place to help mitigate the risks associated with the extreme weather, and residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. By staying informed and taking the necessary precautions, residents can help to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday season, despite the challenging weather conditions.