Residents in Arviat, Nunavut, are facing dangerous weather tonight as a near blizzard brings blowing snow and extreme cold to the area. According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, wind gusts could reach 60 kilometres per hour, creating very poor visibility on the night of February 12, 2026.
The wind chill is expected to drop as low as -44, which can cause frostbite on exposed skin in less than 10 minutes. The Government of Nunavut advises everyone to watch for numbness or skin colour changes and to stay indoors as much as possible.
Travel will be difficult because the blowing snow makes it hard to see more than a short distance ahead. Data from NAV CANADA indicates that these conditions will likely lead to flight disruptions at the Arviat Airport.
The Hamlet of Arviat is monitoring the situation and may issue “No Travel” advisories if visibility continues to drop. Residents are encouraged to listen to local radio updates and be prepared for potential closures of municipal offices and the Health Centre while the extreme cold persists.
