Extreme Cold Snap Grips Saskatchewan, Shattering Temperature Records
Residents across Saskatchewan are braving the bitter chill of what may be one of the coldest weekends on record, as frigid temperatures continue to grip the province. Estevan, among the areas hardest hit, reported temperatures plunging to -39°C and wind chill readings extending even lower, causing significant hardship for those exposed to the conditions.
According to Environment Canada Meteorologist Rose Carlsen, Saskatchewan is experiencing unusually low temperatures, creating what she describes as “a corridor of temperature” stretching from Meadow Lake to Estevan, reaching down to the U.S. northern plains. “Right now we’re experiencing very cold temperatures over Saskatchewan,” she noted. “We’re going to be experiencing this weather for a little bit more this week, then we’re looking toward a pattern shift closer to this weekend where we’re going to be experiencing pretty significant warm up.”
The current state of affairs is unprecedented, with Saskatchewan ranking among the coldest places on earth. Just last weekend, the region saw temperatures dipping below -40°C, and with wind chill, resembling temperatures closer to -50°C. Such conditions are sending residents scrambling for warmth as frostbite can occur within minutes of exposure.
To highlight the severity of the cold, various locations across Saskatchewan reported extreme values. For example, Prince Albert reached -41°C and Meadow Lake hit -40°C, with wind chill making it feel like -51°C. Moose Jaw was similarly impacted, posting readings of -40°C as well. Each of these locations reported not only record-breaking temperatures but also traumatic conditions for anyone stepping outside without proper attire.
David Phillips, climatologist for Environment and Climate Change Canada, confirmed the severity of the situation, stating live on CBC’s Morning Edition, “When you look at all of the whole month in places like, for example, Regina, the temperatures have been about almost 12 or 13 degrees colder than they should be.” He noted how Regina experienced its new record low of -40.4°C, surpassing the previous record set back in 1927.
Phillips added, “It’s warmer on Baffin Island than it is in Saskatchewan. You’re the cold pole of North America.” It’s not just the historical records being broken; the extreme cold is part of broader climatic shifts influencing current temperatures across the continent.
Addressing public safety, both officials and climatologists recommend residents take extra precautions throughout the deep freeze. Layering clothing is imperative—thermal wear, mitts, and face coverings are advised to limit exposure. Car emergency kits are also recommended as even short travel trips can turn hazardous.
“If you can, stay indoors as much as you can,” Carlsen emphasized. “If you do have to go outdoors, make sure to bundle up, layer up, covering up as much skin as possible. Just try to reduce your exposure, and if you have to go outside, try to get back inside as soon as you can.”
The current cold snap has not gone unnoticed globally, with real-time temperature comparisons showing Saskatchewan competing with Antarctica itself. While such extremes are not uncommon for the region during winter, this level of cold is deemed exceptional and has drawn attention from meteorologists everywhere.
The history of extraordinarily cold temperatures during February is evident, as residents currently face records of nearly -50°C. This stark cold was fueled by the presence of a persistent polar vortex which has dominated Saskatchewan’s weather patterns. Although February typically ushers milder temperatures, this year it is telling another story—a harsh lesson on how unpredictable winter weather can be.
Optimistically, Phillips suggests relief may be on the horizon. “The polar vortex is just not going to dominate the weather anymore,” he commented, mentioning potential warming patterns expected shortly. “These are temperatures changing from 23 degrees below normal to 10 degrees above normal.”
While residents await this shift, the current realities of record-breaking cold set the tone for Saskatchewan’s winter survival. Neighbors are invited to check on each other, particularly the vulnerabilities among the elderly who might be more susceptible to the harsh realities of such weather. A sense of community comfort would certainly go hand-in-hand with warmth.
This weekends’ predicament holds its share of eerie charm, with frost scripting formidable designs on windows and snow rendering landscapes mystical. Regardless, Saskatchewan’s residents want nothing more than for the warmth of the upcoming spring to arrive early.