Frigid weekend forecast prompts cold weather warning for P.E.I.

Environment Canada has issued a cold weather warning for all of Prince Edward Island over the weekend, warning a prolonged period of extreme cold is expected.

A flow of arctic air is expected to bring very cold wind chills to the province. It could feel as cold as –25 to –30 C, Environment Canada warns in the yellow alert.

"Extreme cold puts everyone at risk. Dress warmly. Dress in layers that you can remove if you get too warm. The outer layer should be wind resistant," the alert reads.

"Cold warnings are issued when very cold temperatures or wind chill creates an elevated risk to health such as frost bite and hypothermia."

In a news release Friday morning, officials in Charlottetown said comfort centres at Jack Blanchard Hall, Community Baptist Church, Grace Baptist Church, Faith Bible Church and the Winsloe Lions Club are ready to open should the need arise. The Charlottetown Emergency Management Organization (EMO) will provide as much notice as possible, the release said.

People who are unhoused or are worried about someone who might need shelter can contact the P.E.I. Shelter Support Line at 1-833-220-4722 to be connected with available shelter and support services. Additional information on shelter services is available on the P.E.I. government website.

The Salvation Army on 158 Fitzroy Street in Charlottetown will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Maritime Electric has issued a watch alert for Saturday to Monday, which means demand is expected to be higher than normal and residents should be ready to conserve energy if needed.

Other municipalities on P.E.I. said Thursday they were preparing for what CBC meteorologist Jay Scotland called "bitterly cold temperatures" over the weekend. 

"Blustery conditions (particularly Saturday) will also produce a biting wind chill," Scotland said. "Please be sure to dress appropriately for the cold and to limit time outdoors for you and your pets during the coldest times of the day."

He said temperatures will plummet to near -20 C by mid-morning Saturday, and the wind will make it feel near or below -30 C with wind chill values.

"The temperature barely warms up for Saturday afternoon before falling again Saturday night into Sunday morning," Scotland said. "Please be sure to dress appropriately for the cold and to limit time outdoors for you and your pets, especially during the coldest times of the day."

Friday afternoon, Environment Canada also issued a special weather statement for all of P.E.I., warning of the possibility of significant snowfall on Monday.

The weather agency said the storm's exact track is uncertain, but that snow could be accompanied by strong northeasterly winds leading to reduced visibility beginning Sunday night and lasting into Tuesday morning.

Scotland said Friday that it appears the P.E.I. may avoid the worst of the Monday storm, but noted the potential for 10 to 20 centimetres of snow.

Pack emergency kits, officials warn

Residents are advised to have a 72-hour emergency kit ready to go at home or at work. An emergency kit should include:

• At least two litres of water per person, per day.
• A 3-5 day supply of non-perishable food and a manual can opener.
• A stocked first aid kit.
• Hand sanitizer.
• Prescription and non-prescription medications.
• Formula, diapers and other baby supplies, if needed.
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and flashlight.
• Extra batteries.
• Blankets and a change of clothing for each household member.
• Candles and matches or a lighter.
• Cash in small bills, ideally up to $200.
• A charged cell phone with an extra charger or battery pack.
• Food and medication for pets and service animals, if needed.
• Tissues, toilet paper, moist towelettes, garbage bags and other toiletries.
• A printed list of contact names and phone numbers.

Source: City of Charlottetown, P.E.I. government, Canadian Red Cross