Be prepared for some extreme weather in Metro Vancouver this weekend.
While locals have been bracing themselves for the possibility of snow and cold weather, an arctic outflow warning is now in effect for the region that includes some near-record cold temperatures.
Environment Canada has issued a weather warning for Metro Vancouver that states that arctic winds and falling temperatures will combine to produce wind chill values below minus 20.
"An arctic ridge of high pressure over the B.C. interior will bring strong and bitterly cold outflow winds to coastal communities beginning Saturday night," reads the warning.
Temperatures are expected to remain well below seasonal and will bottom out near-record cold temperatures into next week. The cold weather is expected to subside on Wednesday as temperatures increase.
A snowfall warning is also in effect for Metro Vancouver. Snow is expected to remain in the region through Sunday, with greater snowfall amounts expected on the weekend.
What you should keep in mind during the extreme weather
Frostbite and hypothermia can occur within minutes if adequate precautions are not taken when outdoors. Any outdoor activity exposes you to an increased risk of frostbite. Minimize exposed skin with hats, scarves and mittens or gloves. Anyone who is not dressed warmly is at risk of frostbite and hypothermia in cold weather. Be prepared for unusually cold temperatures and strong winds.
Public Safety Canada encourages everyone to make an emergency plan and get an emergency kit with drinking water, food, medicine, a first-aid kit and a flashlight.
Metro Vancouver weather forecast
Wondering what kind of weather to expect in the Lower Mainland over the rest of the winter?
While this season may be colder than average, Environment Canada Meteorologist Bobby Sekhon tells Vancouver Is Awesome in a telephone interview that every winter offers the possibility for extreme weather events, regardless of the long-term forecast.
Have a look at Environment Canada's long-term winter forecast for the Metro Vancouver region.
