Residents in Churchill, Manitoba, are facing dangerous conditions as wind chill values reached −40°C on February 11, 2026. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued an Extreme Cold Warning after ambient temperatures at Churchill Airport fell to −31°C overnight.
Environment and Climate Change Canada warned that with wind gusts up to 50 km/h, frostbite can occur on exposed skin in less than 10 minutes and urged people to limit their time outdoors and dress warmly. Health Canada recommends dressing in layers of synthetic or wool fabrics with a wind‑resistant outer layer.
The Arctic Gateway Group, which owns and operates the Hudson Bay Railway and the Port of Churchill, is responsible for the rail link that serves the town; extreme cold can make tracks brittle and could potentially disrupt that primary land‑based supply route.
Local authorities, including the Town of Churchill, are asking residents to check on vulnerable neighbours and ensure home heating systems are functioning correctly. Residents should limit time outdoors until the cold snap passes.
