Environment Canada has issued a cold warning for Behchokǫ̀, Northwest Territories, because wind chill levels are expected to reach a dangerous minus 50 degrees on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. This warning covers the North Slave Region and includes the nearby communities of Whatì and Wekweeti.
The temperature earlier this morning was recorded at nearly minus 40 degrees, with the wind chill making it feel like minus 45. While the afternoon may reach a high of minus 22, the wind chill is expected to stay around minus 30.
According to Health Canada, frostbite can develop on exposed skin within minutes at these extreme temperatures. Residents should watch for symptoms like numbness, chest pain, shortness of breath, or colour changes in their fingers and toes.
Behchokǫ̀ is the largest Dene community in Canada and is the headquarters for the Tłı̨chǫ Government. Officials remind residents that if it is too cold for people to stay outside, it is also too cold for pets to be outdoors.
The community uses the Mary Adele Bishop Health Centre for basic medical services, but residents with severe injuries may need to be moved to the Stanton Territorial Hospital in Yellowknife. Weather conditions are expected to improve by late Tuesday afternoon.
