Edmonton activates extreme weather response until Dec. 8
Posted November 29, 2022 1:03 pm.
Last Updated November 29, 2022 2:18 pm.
Edmonton has activated its extreme weather response for the first time this winter.
The response came into effect Tuesday at 8 a.m. It is expected to last until Dec. 8 at 8 a.m.
“If weather conditions remain extremely cold beyond this time frame, the response will be extended,” the city said in a statement.
Edmonton’s extreme weather response is activated when temperatures drop to minus-20 Celcius with wind chill for at least three consecutive nights, and when shelter rates are at more than 90 percent.
Alberta is dealing with colder than average temperatures, according to Environment Canada.
“Temperatures in Edmonton over the next little while are going to be 17 or 20 degrees colder than normal,” said David Phillips with Environment Canada. “It’s not record, it’s been colder than that in the past, but it’s pretty tough to take.
“We think that certainly it’s going to start off, looks like the early part of December will be colder than normal.”
Activating the extreme weather response means Edmonton Transit Service will provide overnight transportation to take people to shelters.
“Throughout the activation, ETS will continue its practice of stopping at all bus stops, including most express routes, to pick up anyone waiting when the weather is -20 degrees celsius and below with the windchill.”
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It also means the Al Rashid Mosque will provide expanded overnight shelter: 75 spaces.
The Bissell Centre will operate its community space seven days per week from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. for people to do their laundry, have showers, meals and more.
Meanwhile the Winter Warming Bus will provide food, winter clothing, blankets and transportation to warming centres and shelters.
The Encampment Response Team will conduct wellness checks. And Edmonton Public Library locations will be open for warming purposes during regular operating hours.
—With files from Courtney Theriault
