Residents of Edmonton are bundling up as a brutal and prolonged cold snap has descended on the city just in time for the Christmas holidays, making winter gear a likely top gift this season.
Frigid Forecast Disrupts Holiday Plans
Environment Canada's forecast paints a frosty picture for the week leading up to December 25th. Daytime highs are expected to remain below -20 degrees Celsius, with nighttime lows dropping to -25 C or colder, before wind chill is even factored in. The agency has issued warnings about a significant risk of frostbite for anyone not properly covered up when venturing outside.
The prognosis offers a slight reprieve for Christmas Day itself, with a forecast high of -13 C and a low of -22 C. However, the cold is not the only concern. The forecast also includes a significant chance of flurries on several days, including December 24th, complicating last-minute shopping and travel.
City Activates Extended Support for Vulnerable Residents
In response to the dangerous conditions, the City of Edmonton has extended its extreme weather response until at least the morning of December 27. This protocol is activated when forecasts predict temperatures of -20 C or lower for at least three consecutive days.
The city encourages vulnerable Edmontonians to go to shelters to protect themselves from winter conditions, officials stated in a news release. Shelters are the safest option because they offer protection from cold injuries, including hypothermia, frostbite and death.
To aid those seeking warmth and safety, the city is making several resources available. City libraries, recreation centres, and other facilities are open during regular operating hours for anyone needing to warm up. Additionally, the city has added overnight shuttle capacity to transport people from transit centres to emergency shelters, and a number of day shelter spaces are now operating.
A Chilling Scene for the Holiday Season
The extreme cold has already transformed the city's streets. As recently as December 19th, temperatures dipped to -27 C, creating a stark contrast between the festive season and the harsh reality outside. The conditions pose a serious challenge for all residents, especially those experiencing homelessness or with inadequate housing.
As Edmontonians prepare to celebrate, the focus remains on staying safe and warm. The extended cold streak serves as a stark reminder of Alberta's severe winters and the importance of community support systems during extreme weather events.
