Residents of Hay River, Northwest Territories, should prepare for a chilly start to the day this Friday, April 17, 2026, as light snow and cold winds move through the region.
According to Environment Canada, the morning will see wind chill values drop to near minus 21. While the current temperature is minus 10 degrees, residents are encouraged to dress warmly and limit time outdoors during the early hours of the day.
The cold is expected to moderate as the day progresses. Forecasters anticipate sunny skies by the afternoon, with temperatures reaching a high of minus 4 degrees. Although this is slightly cooler than the seasonal average high of 4 degrees for April, there are currently no weather alerts in effect for the town.
For those spending time outside, it is helpful to note that the risk of frostbite increases significantly as wind chill values drop further. Official guidance from the government indicates that frostbite risk becomes a major concern when wind chill reaches minus 27 or lower, and formal cold warnings are typically issued when conditions hit minus 30 or colder.
Hay River, known as the Hub of the North, is home to 3,169 residents and sits on the south shore of Great Slave Lake. The community is accustomed to cold snaps, though today’s conditions serve as a reminder to remain prepared as the area transitions into the spring season.
