Environment Canada has extended its extreme cold warning for Prince George until Thursday.
As of 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, the temperature was reported at -37.8 C, with a high of -32 C expected on Wednesday afternoon. Winds of up to 15 km/h today were expected to drive the wind chill factor down to -51 C this morning, and -39 C by the afternoon.
At those windchill levels, frostbite can occur within minutes, Environment Canada warned.
“Extreme cold puts everyone at risk. Risks are greater for young children, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, people working or exercising outdoors, and those without proper shelter,” an Environment Canada statement said. “Dress warmly. Dress in layers that you can remove if you get too warm. The outer layer should be wind resistant.”
A cold air mass has settled over the region, and the extreme cold warning includes Quesnel, Williams Lake, 100 Mile House, and the Chilcotin, Stuart-Nechako, McGregor, Yellowhead, Bulkely Valley and Lakes District regions.
Environment Canada is predicting temperatures to warm somewhat on Thursday, with a high of -28 C and windchill of -43 C.
Daily highs of -4.5 C and lows of -12.5 C are normal for this time of year, Environment Canada reported.
