Bundle up: arctic blast settling in over B.C.’s South Coast

Winds are whipping up across Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley Thursday, as a blast of frigid arctic air settles over the region bringing temperatures down.

CityNews Meteorologist Michael Kuss explains the winds will back off, or “at least moderate,” by mid-morning and early afternoon, but gusts of 30 to 50 kilometres an hour will still be felt from the northwest.

“Through the early afternoon, the winds are shifting northeasterly later in the day, and that will draw in the arctic air — an arctic outflow warning has been posted for the Lower Mainland.”

Kuss says to expect temperatures to drop to -3°, but feel about -10° to -12° across the area into Thursday evening.

“Actual readings could be as cold as -12°, but overnight feeling near -20°. Tomorrow, we’re not getting out of the mid-minus single digits at best,” Kuss added. “Most of the coastal areas and inland will be -11°, -12°, without the wind, for highs, but it’s all sun on Friday.”

While not expecting to cover the entire region, Kuss does expect some snow flurries to pass through the, with “a dusting of snow to a couple of centimetres possible in some pockets.”

Environment and Climate Change Canada issued an arctic outflow warning for early Thursday morning, warning of the risk of frostbite and hypothermia due to the bitter cold temperatures coming.

“Frostbite and hypothermia can occur within minutes if adequate precautions are not taken when outdoors. Any skin exposure will result in frostbite. If outside, dress warmly in layers and stay dry. Cover as much exposed skin as possible to avoid frostbite,” the weather service said.

Much of the province is under an outflow or extreme weather warning, with other parts of Northern B.C. and the Interior expected to have temperatures feel as cold as -55°.

Speaking at an unrelated news conference Thursday, Premier David Eby says the province has 1,600 cold, wet weather shelter beds open to support people.

“For those of you who are working outside and living outside, we want you to be safe. Warming centers are open across the province –public libraries, shelters,” he said.

“People in Prince George are facing -40° temperatures … we’re at 3° in Vancouver right now, so, I understand you’re made of tougher stuff in the north. Still, it’s going to be very cold, so please take care.”

With the cold and wind, CityNews Traffic anchor Ryan Lidemark explains drivers will notice the effects, especially in exposed areas like Delta and Richmond, along Highway 99, Highway 91, and Highway 17.

“Be prepared. If you’re crossing the North Shore bridges as well,” he said. “With the temps dropping in the region later on today, make sure you have backup items in your vehicle — warm clothing, blankets, water, and snacks in case your vehicle breaks down.”

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