Edmonton residents who have grown accustomed to unusually mild February weather are about to face a stark reality check as winter prepares to make a dramatic and forceful return to the region. Environment Canada has escalated concerns by issuing a yellow-level snowfall warning specifically for Edmonton, St. Albert, and Sherwood Park, effective on Family Day. This alert signals the onset of significant winter conditions that will disrupt daily life and necessitate heightened preparedness.
Forecast Details and Snowfall Projections
The meteorological agency is forecasting substantial snowfall accumulations ranging from 15 to 25 centimeters, with the potential for amounts to exceed 30 centimeters in localized areas. The precipitation is expected to begin with periods of light snow throughout the day, intensifying dramatically as heavy snowfall moves in during the nighttime hours. This pattern will create hazardous travel conditions and reduce visibility across the metropolitan area.
Temperature Plunge and Wind Chill Factors
Accompanying the snow will be a severe drop in temperatures, marking a sharp departure from recent milder trends. Monday's forecast indicates a high of only -4°C, with wind chill values making it feel closer to -15°C. Winds are predicted to gust at 30 km/h, potentially reaching up to 50 km/h during the morning period. Overnight, the low is expected to plummet to -13°C, setting the stage for an extended cold snap.
According to Environment Canada, this initial cold wave will trigger several consecutive days of frigid conditions. Wednesday is projected to be the coldest day, with a daytime high of -21°C and an overnight low dipping to -27°C. For the remainder of the week, daytime highs are forecast to linger between -14°C and -18°C, not accounting for the additional chilling effects of wind, which will make conditions feel even more severe.
City Activates Extreme Weather Response Protocol
In anticipation of these dangerous conditions, the City of Edmonton has proactively activated its extreme weather response protocol, effective Monday at 9 a.m. This protocol is triggered when forecasts predict temperatures of -20°C or lower, including wind chill, for at least three consecutive days. The activation will remain in place until at least February 27, with updates provided as weather conditions evolve.
As part of this emergency response, numerous city facilities will be opened to the public to provide refuge from the cold. Libraries and recreation centers will operate during their regular hours, offering warm spaces for anyone in need. However, it is important to note that the Al Rashid Mosque will not be providing additional shelter services during this activation period due to observance of Ramadan.
Transportation Impacts and Safety Advisories
The heaviest snowfall is expected to occur Monday night, gradually tapering off by Tuesday night. Environment Canada and local authorities are strongly advising residents to allow extra time for travel, as road conditions will likely become challenging and potentially treacherous. Motorists should exercise extreme caution, reduce speeds, and ensure vehicles are properly equipped for winter driving.
For vulnerable populations and those experiencing homelessness, the city has implemented specific support measures. Residents are encouraged to be vigilant for signs of hypothermia, which include uncontrollable shivering, drowsiness, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, or slurred speech. In severe cases, individuals may become unconscious with no apparent pulse or breathing.
The city has established multiple transportation options for those seeking shelter. Two shelter shuttles are operating along north and south routes from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., while a 24/7 Hope Mission shuttle serves the west route, providing transport to shelters and support services. During the extreme weather response, an additional overnight shuttle will be available along the north route, and from 12:45 to 3:30 a.m., north and south winter shuttles will transport individuals from LRT stations to shelters based on need rather than fixed routes.
Authorities are urging anyone who observes individuals sheltering outdoors in these dangerous conditions to call 211 and press three for the Crisis Diversion Team, ensuring that help can be dispatched promptly to those most at risk from the extreme cold.
