Extreme Cold and Near Blizzard Hit Residents in Rankin Inlet

By

Emma Kelly
March 13, 2026 8:23 am

Environment Canada issued a yellow cold warning for the Rankin Inlet region in Nunavut on March 13, 2026, as extreme wind chills and blowing snow create dangerous conditions. A near blizzard is expected to develop throughout the morning, bringing northwest winds of 40 kilometres per hour with gusts reaching up to 60 kilometres per hour.

Temperatures feel much colder due to the wind, with values dropping as low as minus 57 earlier today. Officials warn that frostbite can develop on exposed skin within minutes under these extreme conditions.

Residents are encouraged to wear wind-resistant layers and cover up completely if they must go outside. It is also important to limit time outdoors for pets and ensure they have proper shelter to avoid injuries from the cold.

The hazardous weather is expected to continue across the Kivalliq region through the day and into the weekend. Local authorities recommend staying alert for updates as the storm progresses.

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