Extreme cold warnings issued for most of Alberta
CBC News | Posted: December 16, 2016 4:22 PM | Last Updated: December 16, 2016
With wind chill, it may feel as cold as –40 again overnight Friday into Saturday morning
Environment Canada has issued an extreme cold warning for Edmonton, St. Albert and Sherwood Park — and for most other locations in Alberta.
The agency has issued 25 separate weather alerts covering every part of the province north of Drumheller.
"A period of very cold wind chills is expected," Environment Canada said in a statement Friday afternoon for the Edmonton area..
"Wind chill values have moderated this afternoon. However, values will reach –40 again overnight tonight and into Saturday morning."
People, especially those who spend long hours outside, are reminded to dress appropriately for the weather to avoid the risk of frostbite or hypothermia.
Extreme cold warnings are issued when very cold temperatures or wind chill creates an elevated risk to health such as frost bite and hypothermia.
People are advised to continue to watch for alerts and forecasts.
As of 2 p.m. Friday, the temperature in Edmonton was –18 C, with the wind chill making it feel like –23.
But, according the long term forecast from Environment Canada, there may be reprieve in sight.
The bone-chilling temperatures that have gripped Edmonton for weeks may begin to ease off this weekend.
By Sunday, temperatures are expected to rise to –5 C.
By Monday, Edmontonians can expect clear, sunny skies and relatively balmy zero degrees.