Urgent Alert: Snow and Extreme Cold Hit Northern Alberta, B.C.

UPDATE: Northern Alberta and British Columbia are bracing for a severe winter storm this week, with temperatures plummeting to a bone-chilling -35°C as early as Thursday. Environment Canada has issued urgent warnings for frostbite risk and heavy snowfall, affecting travel and outdoor activities across the region.

Residents should prepare for extreme conditions, with up to 30 cm of snow expected in the Alberta Peace Region north of Edmonton by the end of the week. The weather system is forecasted to impact both the eastern and western borders of Alberta, including major cities like Grande Prairie and extending into British Columbia.

Late Monday evening, heavy rain and snow showers will sweep through the B.C. Peace River District. Environment Canada warns that a strong northwest wind may gust up to 90 km/h, creating hazardous travel conditions with reduced visibility. The weather service cautions, “Travel will likely be challenging. Prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions and allow extra time for travel.”

The snowfall is set to begin in the B.C. Peace River District and southern Fort Nelson region early this morning, tapering off by Monday night. Environment Canada advises residents to stay indoors if possible and to dress warmly when venturing outside, as the risk of frostbite will be significant in many areas.

This severe winter weather aligns with predictions made earlier this season by climatologist Judah Cohen from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Cohen stated that a sub-seasonal AI model indicated a high likelihood of extreme cold stretching across the Canadian Plains into the U.S. East Coast by mid-December. He noted, “This is the most expansive region of most likely extreme cold on earth.”

As the cold front moves across Western Canada, residents can expect below-normal temperatures to continue building nationwide, posing risks not only to travel but also to health and safety. Citizens in the affected regions are urged to stay informed of updates from Environment Canada and to take necessary precautions.

Stay tuned for further developments as this winter weather situation unfolds. Prepare now to ensure your safety during this extreme cold snap.