Key Takeaways
- Frigid temperatures are expected to affect Western Canada, with snow advisories and cold warnings in effect for parts of Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan
- Up to 10-20 cm of snow is expected to fall in Central Alberta by Christmas morning, with drivers advised to adjust travel plans accordingly
- Wind chill values are predicted to reach as low as -45 to -55 C in some areas, including parts of British Columbia’s northern interior and the Yukon
- Arctic air has been building over the Yukon for the past week and a half, but is expected to bring some relief with the arrival of cloud cover and moisture in the coming days
- Temperatures are expected to rise by 10-20 degrees by the weekend, but will still remain below normal for this time of year
Introduction to the Weather Forecast
Frigid temperatures are sweeping across Western Canada, with parts of Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan under snow advisories and cold warnings. The affected areas can expect a snowy Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, with up to 10-20 cm of snow predicted to fall in Central Alberta by Christmas morning. Environment Canada is advising drivers to consider adjusting their travel plans to take into account the potentially hazardous road conditions. The cold warnings in effect for parts of Manitoba, Alberta, and Saskatchewan are particularly concerning, with wind chill values predicted to reach as low as -45 to -50 C in some areas.
The Impact of the Cold Snap
The extreme cold has been blanketing much of the Yukon for several days, with wind chills in some spots hitting -45 to -55 C. This has led to a significant disruption in daily life, with many residents forced to take precautions to stay warm and safe. The cold snap has also had an impact on transportation, with roads and highways potentially becoming hazardous due to the snow and ice. As a result, drivers are being advised to exercise extreme caution when traveling, and to consider alternative routes or modes of transportation if possible. The cold weather has also had an impact on outdoor activities, with many events and gatherings being cancelled or postponed due to the extreme temperatures.
The Forecast for the Yukon
According to Derek Lee, a meteorologist with Environment Canada, the Arctic air that has been building over the Yukon for the past week and a half is expected to bring some relief in the coming days. A system is predicted to roll through the territory, bringing with it moisture and cloud cover that will help to keep temperatures higher than they are currently. While the cold is not expected to dissipate completely, the cloud cover is predicted to sweep over the territory from north to south, helping to keep in some warmer air. As a result, temperatures are expected to rise by 10-20 degrees by the weekend, although they will still remain below normal for this time of year. Lee noted that the temperatures will likely still be in the negative 35 to negative 40 range, but this will be an improvement from the current extreme cold.
The Broader Implications of the Weather
The extreme cold and snow affecting Western Canada has broader implications for the region. The weather is expected to have an impact on the economy, with transportation and trade potentially being disrupted. The cold snap has also had an impact on the environment, with concerns about the potential for power outages and disruptions to essential services. Furthermore, the extreme weather has raised concerns about the potential for hypothermia and frostbite, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and young children. As a result, it is essential for residents to take precautions to stay safe and warm, and to check in on neighbors and loved ones who may be at risk.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
In conclusion, the frigid temperatures and snow affecting Western Canada are expected to continue through Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, with parts of Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan under snow advisories and cold warnings. While the Arctic air is expected to bring some relief in the coming days, temperatures will still remain below normal for this time of year. It is essential for residents to take precautions to stay safe and warm, and to check in on neighbors and loved ones who may be at risk. As the weather continues to evolve, it is crucial to stay informed and up-to-date with the latest forecast and warnings, and to take necessary steps to mitigate the impact of the extreme cold and snow.
