Environment Canada issued an extreme cold warning Wednesday afternoon that covers the entire province.
The warning says temperatures will drop to near –30 C tonight with wind chills near –40 C.
Air temperatures will continue to fall through the end of the week with the coldest values expected by Saturday morning.
The warning says a long period of extreme cold temperatures and wind chills are expected this weekend.
Over the weekend, the warning says morning temperatures will reach –40 C in many areas. Wind chills will approach –50 C.
"Arctic air is funnelling into Alberta to end the week. Temps from –30 C to -40 C are forecast for Friday and Saturday, with wind chills from –45 to –55 expected," Environment Canada meteorologists said in announcing the warning.
"Slight improvement in the temperature is forecast for early next week, but certainty is low and below normal temperatures are likely to continue," the warning continued.
Risks are greater for young children, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, people working or exercising outdoors, and those without proper shelter, says Environment Canada.
"Cover up. Frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin, especially with wind chill. If it’s too cold for you to stay outside, it’s too cold for your pet to stay outside."
