Key Takeaways:
- A strong polar vortex is expected to hit Quebec this weekend, bringing extremely cold temperatures and high winds.
- Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a yellow warning for most of the province and parts of Ontario, with an orange warning for areas farther west.
- The cold weather poses a risk of frostbite and hypothermia, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and homeless.
- Hydro-Québec is preparing for peak electricity demand, with tools in place to help households and businesses manage their consumption.
- Montreal Public Health is offering tips on how to stay safe in the cold, including dressing warmly, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol and drug use.
Introduction to the Polar Vortex
A strong polar vortex is expected to slam into Quebec this weekend, bringing the coldest weather of the season. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued a yellow warning, meaning moderate impact, for most of the province and parts of Ontario. Farther west, the warning has reached orange, meaning high impact. The ECCC is warning people to be properly dressed if they venture outside this weekend, with low temperatures bringing an elevated risk of frostbite. Cold warnings are issued when very cold temperatures or wind chill creates an elevated risk to health, such as frostbite and hypothermia.
Preparation for the Cold Weather
On Saturday, wind chill values will reach near –35 C overnight and early Sunday morning. The ECCC recommends people dress warmly, in layers, including a wind-resistant outer layer. And if it’s too cold for you to stay outside, it’s too cold for your pet. Hydro-Québec is gearing up for peak electricity demand as everyone heats their homes. It is forecasting an annual peak consumption of 40,000 megawatts on Sunday morning, exceeding the Crown corporation’s production capacity of 37,000 megawatts. However, spokesperson Cendrix Bouchard expressed optimism, pointing out that the corporation had already met an even higher demand in 2023, around 43,000 megawatts.
Public Health Warnings
Montreal Public Health is also warning people about the cold on its website, offering tips on how to stay protected. When dealing with extreme cold, the health agency says basic precautions can prevent serious risks like frostbite and hypothermia. To stay safe, drink hot beverages, eat frequently, and avoid cotton against the skin, which retains moisture. Change out of wet clothes promptly and inform a trusted contact of your whereabouts. The agency warns that alcohol or drug use heightens hypothermia risks, urging users to avoid consuming alone, keep naloxone unfrozen, and administer it with a 911 call if breathing falters.
Warming Stations and Homelessness
The city of Montreal has added 534 temporary spots in warming shelters, with room for more than 3,000 people to warm up. However, organizations that help people experiencing homelessness welcome the measure, but also say that one of the challenges is ensuring that these individuals know about the facilities. Claude Pinard, chair of Montreal’s executive committee and responsible for homelessness, told CBC Montreal’s Let’s Go on Friday that the city has been getting ready for the cold. While his administration is meeting its campaign promises, he said it’s still not enough.
Outdoor Recreation and Events
As far as outdoor recreation is concerned, the show must go on. Igloofest is taking place in Montreal despite the frigid temperatures. Tasha Prentice, spokesperson for the festival, said festival staff are ready for the cold with first responders and protocols in place. “We’ve been doing this for 18 editions now. Usually our fans prepare for it as well,” she said. “Layering is your best friend. You’re going to have to look like a colourful little sandwich if you want to come to Igloofest this weekend.” The festival is expected to go ahead as planned, with attendees advised to take necessary precautions to stay safe in the cold.