Residents in Churchill, Manitoba, are facing dangerous outdoor conditions as extreme cold and high winds move through the region on February 3, 2026. Environment Canada has issued an extreme cold warning and blowing-snow advisory for Feb. 3–4, 2026, stating that wind chills could reach minus 44 with peak intensity expected overnight on Feb. 3.
Strong wind gusts reaching up to 70 kilometres per hour are picking up snow from the ground and reducing visibility to near-whiteout conditions in open areas. These ground blizzards can create hazardous conditions for anyone travelling, particularly on the road between the town and the airport.
Environment Canada warns: “At wind chills of minus 44, exposed skin can freeze in approximately 10 minutes. We are advising all residents to remain indoors. If you must go outside, synthetic or wool layers are essential, and the outer layer must be wind-resistant.” The federal Government of Canada’s wind-chill guidance also advises people to stay indoors where possible and to wear wind‑resistant outer layers if they must go outside.
The Town Centre Complex in Churchill houses essential services — including the Churchill Health Centre medical clinic and the public library — allowing residents to access health care and other services with minimal outdoor exposure.
While Churchill is built to cope with severe winter weather, the combination of low visibility and extreme cold threatens regional travel. Forecasters say the 70 km/h gusts pose a specific risk to air service at Churchill Airport and could disrupt other regional transportation links during the storm. The most intense part of the system is expected to last through the night.
