Brace for a Frigid Morning as Wind Chills Plummet to -40°C

Kenora is under an Extreme Cold Warning with wind chills of -40°C. Stay indoors, protect pets and livestock, and prepare for another bitterly cold night ahead.

Kenora and the surrounding Lake of the Woods region are in the icy grip of an Extreme Cold Warning, with bitter wind chills making for dangerously cold conditions this morning. If you haven’t already layered up, now’s the time—because wind chill values of -40°C mean frostbite can set in within minutes. Fortunately, relief is expected later this morning as temperatures slowly rise with daytime heating, but be prepared for another potential deep freeze overnight.

Who’s at Risk?

When temperatures drop this low, everyone is at risk of cold-related illnesses. However, young children, the elderly, individuals with chronic health conditions, and those working outdoors are especially vulnerable. Watch out for warning signs of cold stress, including shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle weakness, and numbness in fingers and toes.

Protect Yourself and Your Animals

With extreme cold comes a heightened risk for both humans and animals. If you feel it’s too cold for you, it’s definitely too cold for your furry friends. Keep pets indoors as much as possible, and if they must go out, limit their time outside and provide warm, dry shelter. Check their paws for signs of frostbite or ice buildup, and make sure they have fresh (not frozen) water available.

For livestock, ensure adequate bedding, shelter from the wind, and plenty of food and water—animals burn more calories to stay warm in extreme cold. Also, be cautious of frozen water sources and provide heated waterers where possible.

What’s Ahead?

As the morning progresses, temperatures will moderate slightly, bringing a temporary break from the extreme cold. However, another round of bone-chilling temperatures could return tonight, so don’t pack away the extra layers just yet.

Historic Weather Facts for February 11

On this day in Kenora’s weather history, the warmest February 11 recorded was a mild +3.2°C (back when winter was feeling generous), while the coldest plummeted to a brutal -40.6°C—which, frankly, sounds all too familiar right now.

Stay warm, stay safe, and remember: if it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them!