Northwest Territories

Tuktoyaktuk Faces Fast Frostbite Risk From Extreme Cold

By

Emma Kelly
March 17, 2026 7:45 am

Environment Canada has issued an extreme cold warning for Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories, as wind chill values are expected to drop to -45°C with wind chill on March 17, 2026. This severe weather alert highlights a significant risk, as frostbite can develop on exposed skin within just a few minutes of being outdoors.

The dangerous cold conditions are expected to stay throughout the night of March 17 and persist into the morning of March 18, 2026. Local residents are encouraged to stay indoors as much as possible until the temperatures begin to improve.

For those who must go outside, officials recommend wearing several layers of clothing to stay warm. It is also important to ensure that all skin is covered to protect against the immediate threat of frostbite and hypothermia.

These hazardous conditions are part of an Arctic weather pattern that brings life-threatening cold to the community. The weather service will continue to update the forecast as conditions change over the next two days.

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