Extreme Cold for Northern B.C.

A blast of extreme cold with dangerous wind chills is moving across northern B.C., the North Coast, and southern Yukon.

In northern B.C., places like Atlin, Dease Lake, Muncho Lake–Stone Mountain Park, and Fort Nelson could see wind chills as low as minus 45 from tonight through midday Thursday, thanks to an Arctic high bringing frigid air.

The coldest stretch is expected Tuesday night to Wednesday night, with some relief by Thursday.

Environment Canada warns frostbite can set in within minutes, so bundle up, cover exposed skin, and keep emergency supplies like blankets and jumper cables in your vehicle.

Strong Arctic outflow winds are also hitting inland North Coast areas like Terrace and Kitimat until Wednesday morning, with gusts up to 60 km/h making it feel like minus 20 despite air temps around minus 9 to minus 11.

People should limit time outside, shelter pets and livestock, and take warm-up breaks if working outdoors.

Southern Yukon is also under an extreme cold warning, with wind chills between minus 45 and minus 50 expected through late Wednesday for Whitehorse, Teslin, Kluane Lake, Champagne Landing, Watson Lake, and the Cassiar Mountains.

Some moderation is expected Wednesday night into Thursday. Health officials remind everyone to watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia, like numbness, color changes in fingers and toes, muscle weakness, chest pain, and shortness of breath.