Update (Jan. 19, 8:40 a.m.)
On January 19, most of Canada woke up to extreme cold warnings as frigid air swept across the country.
Sunday morning, most of Saskatchewan was blanketed by severe conditions, with temperatures hovering around -30°C and wind chills approaching -40°C.
Overnight and early morning wind chill values near -45°C will continue through the weekend.
Temperatures are expected to moderate Monday afternoon ending the period of extreme cold.
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Original report (Jan. 18 at 8:45 a.m.)
Most of Saskatchewan is under an extreme cold warning Saturday morning.
As of 8:30 a.m., most of the province—including all cities and most communities in western, central, northern, southern, and southeastern Saskatchewan—was blanketed by the extreme cold warning, which is expected to last for several days. The only areas not under the extreme cold warning are southwestern Saskatchewan and parts of the north.
A prolonged period of extremely cold wind chills is expected, according to Environment Canada.
Wind chills in the -40s are forecast at times this weekend, with the cold snap likely to persist into early next week.
“Extreme cold puts everyone at risk,” Environment Canada said. “Risks are greater for young children, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, people working or exercising outdoors, and those without proper shelter.”
The agency advises the public to watch for cold-related symptoms, including shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle pain and weakness, numbness, and colour changes in fingers and toes.
Drivers are reminded to keep emergency supplies in their vehicles, such as extra blankets and jumper cables.
SaskToday will continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.
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