The communities of Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug, Sachigo Lake, Kasabonika Lake, and Bearskin Lake are bracing for continued extreme cold conditions, with temperatures plummeting to -32°C early this morning under clear skies. The barometer reading at 101.7 kPa indicates steady pressure, while humidity levels hover at 76%, accentuating the penetrating cold. With north-northwest winds blowing at 11 km/h, the wind chill factor is an astonishing -42°C, making the air feel even more biting.
Today’s Arctic Embrace
The sun will shine over these northern territories, but don’t let its rays fool you; the wind is expected to pick up, reaching northwest at 30 km/h and gusting to 50 km/h, driving the high to only -22°C. The wind chill will make it feel as though it’s -45°C in the morning, slightly improving to -35°C in the afternoon. The risk of frostbite is alarmingly high, with exposed skin susceptible within minutes, despite the low UV index of 1.
Nightfall’s Deep Freeze
As night descends, the clear skies will remain, with the wind maintaining its strength before becoming lighter after midnight. The mercury is set to drop to -32°C, with wind chills dipping to -36°C in the evening and reaching -44°C overnight, further emphasizing the frostbite warning.
The Cold Stretch Continues
Thursday promises sunny skies again, with lighter winds at up to 15 km/h. However, the high will barely reach -20°C, and the morning wind chill is expected to be -44°C, warming slightly to -24°C in the afternoon. The night will bring cloudy skies and a low of -28°C.
The pattern shifts slightly on Friday, with periods of snow and a high of -14°C, offering a brief respite from the more severe cold. However, the night will be cloudy with a 60% chance of flurries and a low of -25°C.
Saturday’s forecast suggests a mix of sun and cloud with a 30% chance of flurries and a high of -17°C, followed by a clear night and a low of -29°C.
Wardrobe Suggestions
In the face of such severe cold, it’s crucial to wear multiple layers of insulation, including thermal base layers, fleece mid-layers, and windproof, waterproof outer layers. Protect extremities with insulated gloves, wool socks, hats, and face masks to prevent frostbite.
Weather Trivia: Northern Ontario
Northern Ontario is no stranger to extreme weather, with historical records showing temperatures can swing dramatically between seasons. This current cold snap, with wind chills nearing -45°C, underscores the region’s reputation for harsh winters, challenging the resilience of its communities and wildlife.
