Residents of Brandon, Manitoba, are preparing for a period of dangerous weather after Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued an Orange-level Extreme Cold Warning starting the night of January 21, 2026. The warning predicts wind chill values between -40 and -45 that are forecast to last for at least three days across southern Manitoba.
This Orange designation is part of the new colour-coded alert system introduced in November 2025 to highlight weather that can cause significant health risks and disruptions to daily life. ECCC warns that frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin and advises, “If it’s too cold for you to stay outside, it’s too cold for your pet,” encouraging residents to keep animals indoors during the deep freeze.
The extreme cold could affect local services, including potential flight delays at Brandon Municipal Airport (McGill Field) as crews contend with de-icing and mechanical challenges in very low temperatures, and increased strain on city water pipes that can lead to more water-main breaks during prolonged cold. The Brandon School Division says decisions about bus service are made by 6:30 a.m.; in Southern Manitoba, rural bus routes are commonly cancelled when wind chill approaches -45°C, though schools typically remain open for students who can get there safely.
City officials are urging everyone to limit their time outside and to check on neighbours who might be at risk. Drivers are advised to carry emergency kits in their vehicles, and outdoor workers should take frequent warm-up breaks to avoid cold-related injuries such as frostbite and hypothermia.
