VANCOUVER — Environment Canada is warning that frostbite and hypothermia that can occur within minutes as frigid conditions linger over much of British Columbia.
Extreme cold and arctic outflow warnings are in place for much of the interior as well as the north and central coasts and the agency is suggesting people limit outdoor activities and ensure pets and outdoor animals are sheltered.
The weather office says an arctic air mass over central B.C. is bringing wind chills near -40 to the north and -20 in coastal areas and the Whistler Valley.
Extreme cold warnings have also been issued for the B.C. Peace Region, including Fort St. John and Dawson Creek.
Environment Canada says temperatures in the region are expected to warm during the day after dropping to about -40 Celsius overnight.
There's still a chance of flurries in Vancouver, where temperatures dropped below -8 Celsius this morning.
An early morning extreme cold warning was also issued for Yoho and Kootenay parks and the Elk Valley, with the weather office saying gusty easterly winds will result in chills of about -40 Celsius.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 5, 2025.
The Canadian Press
