The expected extreme cold of the prairies has finally descended upon Moose Jaw after a strangely mild fall, with Environment Canada warning of a 'multi-day episode' of wind chill temperatures reaching as low as -50 degrees Celsius.
The Environment Canada website states that from the morning of Thursday the 11th through to Monday the 15th, an arctic air mass will move into the region. The danger is greatest at night, with base temperatures at or near -30°C combining with winds of 15 to 25 km/h to result in wind chill values ranging from -40°C to -50°C at times.
Read the warning at weather.gc.ca/city/pages/sk-24_metric_e.html.
Windy conditions during cold weather will dramatically increase the experienced cold, as well as the danger of that cold, by continuously stripping away body heat. This increases the risk of frostbite, but it also speeds up the development of hypothermia by exhausting available energy. Hypothermia is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body cannot maintain an internal temperature high enough to function.
Square One Community Inc., an organization working to ensure everyone has access to safe, secure housing, first compiled a list of warm-up spaces, emergency food options, and emergency shelter support operations in Dec. 2022.
The list, which includes several organizations that can supply weather-appropriate clothing, is available and updated at squareonehousingmoosejaw.com/extremeweather-mealofferings.
Members of the public should share any suggested updates and requests for additions to [email protected].
The list includes contact numbers and advice for concerned citizens on who to call if they observe anyone in danger from the weather.
In frigid temperatures, frostbite can occur in only minutes and cause permanent damage. Exposed skin is most at risk, but long-term exposure can also endanger skin that is only lightly covered. Tingling, numbness, and pain are followed by skin discoloration as the water in the skin freezes, killing the cells much like a burn.
If you notice signs of frostbite, make every effort to get out of the cold. Do not rub the area or apply too much heat. Gentle warmth is best.
The Moose Jaw Police Service and Moose Jaw RCMP remind the public that if you see an un-housed person in distress, 911 is always an option. Emergency services will work with the individual to see they are safe.
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