Extreme cold rages on in the Land of Living Skies

Extreme cold warnings were still in effect across the entire province of Saskatchewan on Thursday.

Regina’s forecast for Thursday predicted a high of just -22 C, while Saskatoon was expected to reach just -23 C.

Overnight wind-chill values for both Regina and Saskatoon were expected to reach -42 C on Thursday.

Environment and Climate Change Canada meteorologist Chris Stammers says the warnings will stay in place until wind-chill values rise above the -40 C mark.

“It looks like by the weekend, we’ll start to see an improvement in temperatures … Saturday’s going to see a low of -38. We’re going to creep into the mid-teens and then rising overnight even more,” Stammers said. “By Sunday, we’re going to see highs around -5, so it’s going to be quite the flip back to above-normal temperatures.”

Stammers said temperatures have been this low due to a ridge of high pressure extending from the Arctic that has been allowing cold Arctic air to flow towards the prairies.

When it comes to staying safe when it’s extremely cold outside, Stammers recommends dressing in layers.

“(Try) to stay out of the wind as much as possible (and check) on those most vulnerable,” he added.

Stammers stressed that with wind chills below -40, frostbite could develop on exposed skin within a couple of minutes.

According to the weather agency’s website, it’s important to watch for cold-related symptoms, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle pain and weakness, and numbness and colour change in fingers and toes whenever it’s extremely cold.