Residents across the Lower Mainland are waking up to some very cold temperatures.
Today is the coldest morning in the region since early January.
Global BC meteorologist Mark Madryga says it dipped briefly to -5.8 this morning at the airport, which is the lowest since January when it was -6.5. Previously, Madryga says it has not been as cold since Dec. 1, 2014, when it dipped to -6.1.
And while it is cold, the arctic winds sweeping across the region are making it feel much colder.
Environment Canada has issued an Arctic outflow warning for Howe Sound, Whistler and the eastern Fraser Valley tonight. The combination of strong winds and low temperatures will cause wind chill values to drop to near -20 tonight and continue through Thursday.
Environment Canada warns anyone who is not dressed warmly is at risk of frostbite and hypothermia in cold weather.
Meanwhile, today’s winter weather is still causing havoc for commuters across Metro Vancouver.
Monday’s snowfall has turned into frozen solid ice, leaving a challenge for many drivers this morning. The unplowed and unsalted side streets are extremely slippery, especially for those without winter tires.
Most main roads are clear but caution is still advised and police are asking people to slow down and leave distance between vehicles.
The temperature is not expected to warm up above 0 degrees today. More snow is in the forecast for Thursday.
The City of Vancouver says crews are going to be working around the clock to salt and sand roads ahead of Thursday’s storm.
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We are expecting updates from the City of Vancouver and Translink about how they are preparing for the winter weather Thursday.
New help is also on the way for the homeless as the temperatures drop.
Emergency shelters have been opened and they are full with people trying to escape from the bitter cold. There are fears the weather could be life-threatening for those who can’t find shelter.
“It’s extremely dangerous to be outside in these types of temperatures,” said Sean Spear from RainCity Housing. “So if people need shelter in any way we really want them to come to our shelters.”
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