Extreme cold weather warning issued for Fort Nelson

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Environment Canada has issued an extreme cold warning for Fort Nelson. Stock image of a snowy scene. (Patrice Bouchard/Unsplash)

FORT NELSON, B.C. — Wind chill temperatures as low as -45 C can be expected in Fort Nelson leading up to Christmas Day.

In a December 23rd weather alert, Environment Canada said an Arctic ridge of high pressure will bring very cold temperatures to the area, with the coldest period of time expected between the night of Tuesday, December 23rd and the night of Wednesday, December 24th.

According to Environment Canada, wind chill values as low as -45 C can be expected before temperatures moderate by Thursday, December 25th.

“Cover up,” said the agency in its alert. “Frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin, especially with wind chill.”

Under Environment Canada’s colour-coded alert system, the alert is considered yellow level.

Yellow alerts indicate hazardous weather that may cause damage, disruptions or health impacts. These alerts are typically moderate, localized, short-term and are the most common.

The agency also reminded drivers to keep emergency supplies in their vehicles, such as extra blankets and jumper cables, and recommended outdoor workers take regularly scheduled breaks to warm up.