Orange Alert: Extreme Cold to Grip Thompson Through Weekend - AI Generated Image
The deep freeze has officially settled in, and Environment Canada is warning residents that the worst is yet to come.
As of this morning, Thursday, January 22, 2026, Thompson is under an Orange Cold Warning, signaling a severe multi-day weather event that poses significant health risks. Meteorologists are forecasting dangerously extreme wind chills ranging from -45°C to -50°C that will persist right through the weekend.
The city is already feeling the bite. As of 11:00 a.m. today, temperatures were sitting at -29.9°C with a wind chill of -44°C. Adding to the hazardous conditions is light snow and drifting snow, driven by northwest winds gusting up to 41 km/h.
There is little relief in sight for the next few days:
- Tonight: Temperatures will drop to a low of -33°C with overnight wind chills hitting -45°C.
- Friday: Expect a high of only -26°C, but the real danger comes overnight when the actual temperature plunges to -39°C.
Under an Orange Warning, the risk of frostbite is “immediate and severe”. Exposed skin can freeze in mere minutes at these wind chill values. Residents are urged to limit outdoor exposure, dress in heavy layers, and ensure all skin is covered if they must go outside.
Emma specializes in municipal politics, community development, and the social issues shaping Thompson. She is dedicated to transparent, balanced reporting that keeps the community informed.
Contact her at emma@thethompsonnews.ca.
