Arctic air looms over B.C. as temperatures plummet, warnings issued
Extreme cold and Arctic outflow warnings span the majority of British Columbia heading into the weekend as temperatures plunge to threatening levels
The first full week of 2024 started off on a blustery note for British Columbia as a powerful wind storm blew into the province on earlier this week.
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So, after this late taste of winter, many may be wondering what's next if anything at all. Unfortunately, this wind storm was only the start of B.C.'s wintry woes.
A polar vortex is on the move across Western Canada, and it will have a direct effect on B.C. and the South Coast’s weather in the next few days.
Plunging temperatures
Below freezing daytime highs are forecast Friday and Saturday across all of B.C., prompting Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) to issue extreme cold and Arctic outflow warnings across the majority of the province. Temperatures will be significantly colder overnight as well as throughout the Interior.
"Frostbite and hypothermia can occur within minutes if adequate precautions are not taken when outdoors. Any skin exposure will result in frostbite," ECCC stated in one of its warnings. "Watch for cold related symptoms: shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle pain and weakness, numbness and colour change in fingers and toes."
Frigid wind chills will also add an extra bite to the air, so be sure to bundle up when heading outside.
SEE ALSO: What is wind chill and why does it 'feel' so miserable?
The extreme cold has even prompted several ski resorts to close their doors for the weekend, with the risk of frostbite and hypothermia to people on the slopes being too great.
The cold, in combination with fallen snow, has also led to some roadways freezing over, so be extremely cautious when driving and consider staying home if possible. Reports of major accidents and other impacts have already been reported on Thursday night as the cold air and snow moved in.
This frigid cold won't be sticking around forever, however. Temperatures will start to warm up, starting along the coast, heading into the middle of next week.
WATCH: Vancouver Island, tracking snowfall and arctic air across the area
Stay with The Weather Network for more forecast information and updates across for your weather across B.C.
