Extreme cold weather and warnings

In Alberta, an extreme cold warning is issued by Environment Canada when temperatures or the wind chill index reach -40°C or colder. Being exposed even for short periods in these conditions can be dangerous. Extreme cold weather updates will be posted to this page if warming stations are opened or there is a significant update for the community. 

Protect yourself and your loved ones from the elements:

• Stay indoors when possible. If venturing outside dress in warm, windproof layers. Watch for signs of frostbite, which can occur in less than 10 minutes in extreme cold.
• If you have to travel by vehicle, know your route ahead of time, bring outdoor winter clothing and boots, and have a full tank of gas plus a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle.
• Take precautions when working outside; do not over-exert yourself. Sweating can lead to hypothermia; which can be fatal.
• Make sure your pets have warm shelter, food and accessible water during a cold snap.
• Winterize your home to avoid furnace outages or frozen pipes.
• Ensure you have carbon monoxide alarms installed in every room of your home and ensure outdoor vents remain clear of snow and ice build-up. View the carbon monoxide safety guide (PDF).
• Find a shelter if in need.
• See more information on how to prepapre for extreme cold weather by Government of Alberta.

View the list of Community Resources

Extreme cold weather puts residents experiencing vulnerability at a greater risk. Residents experiencing vulnerability in Airdrie are encouraged to utilize these supports and resources.

Warming spaces
These community spaces will be open to welcome anyone in the community needing a warm and safe place during their regular business hours in extreme cold weather conditions.

• Airdrie Public Library: The library is open seven days a week. Hours of operations:
  Monday to Friday: 9:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
  Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  Sunday: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
  *holiday hours may apply
  Please visit yourapl.ca for the most updated information on hours of operations and location.

• Genesis Place: Genesis Place is open seven days a week. Hours of operations:
  Monday to Friday: 5:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
  Weekends: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
  Please visit genesisplace.ca for the most updated  information on hours of operations and location.

Airdrie Transit
Airdrie Transit will ensure that during extreme cold weather events, all residents will be provided with transportation options along local Routes 1 and 3. Residents will have access to various programs and services or other warm, safe environments.

To check bus routes, please visit airdrietransit.ca .

What can Airdrie residents do to help?

• For emergencies, call 911.

• For all other non-emergency matters, contact Municipal Enforcement at 403.948.8888 or the RCMP non-emergency complaint line at 403.945.RCMP (7267)

• If you want to help spread the word about extreme cold supports, you can download and print the Extreme Cold Weather Supports Poster (PDF) to hang in a public space at your business or organization. You can also request a printed poster by emailing Angela Angel.

The Extreme Weather Action Collective (EWAC) 

The Extreme Weather Action Collective is a group of committed local service providers whose purpose is to help protect the health and safety of residents experiencing vulnerability during extreme cold weather events. EWAC meets regularly to plan and prepare for extreme cold weather events.

Whether you are looking for community supports to help another person in need or could use support yourself, the following list* of organizations offer supports for Airdrie residents.

*This list is updated on a monthly basis. The City of Airdrie is not associated with the organizations listed. We strongly advise you to verify this information by visiting each organization's website for the most recent contact details, operational hours and service descriptions.