Extreme cold warnings end after frigid week in Saskatchewan

After a full week in the deep freeze, Saskatchewan is beginning to warm up.

The extreme cold warnings that have been in effect for much of the province since last Wednesday all came to an end on Tuesday afternoon after a week that saw temperatures drop as low as -40 C, with a blistering windchill added in for good measure.

The extreme cold snap seemed to slow everything down. Many cars refused to start, and the freezing temperatures played havoc with air travel as well.

CAA Saskatchewan said the cold snap brought in around 4,000 requests from members for help with boosts, tows, lock outs, and deliveries of fuel and air since Thursday.

The cold snap brought safety concerns with it as well, with first responders sharing advice on how to prevent frostbite and cities adding more warming locations for those experiencing homelessness.

Environment Canada’s highs for Tuesday were -20 C in Regina and -21 C in Saskatoon. Both cities are expected to get to -13 C by Saturday, which may feel downright tropical after the temperatures seen in over the past seven days.

The latest information on cold warnings and other weather alerts can be found on Environment Canada’s website.