Residents in Swan River, Manitoba are facing life-threatening cold after Environment and Climate Change Canada issued an Orange Warning – Cold for the area on January 23, 2026. The alert covers the Municipality of Swan Valley West (including Benito) and is also displayed on the Swan River forecast page, with wind chills expected to be between −40 and −45. Overnight wind chills could feel as cold as −50 during the multi-day episode.
The Swan Valley School Division cancelled bus services for the day (Buses Not Running) on Thursday, January 22, 2026; schools remained open for those who could travel safely. Officials and forecasters warned that frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin at these wind-chill levels, potentially in under 10 minutes.
Local residents and people working outside are being advised to dress in layers and keep emergency supplies in their vehicles. Recommended items include extra blankets and jumper cables in case of a mechanical breakdown. Manitoba 511 is providing up-to-date road and traveller information; transportation guidance notes that road salt and de-icing treatments become less effective in extremely cold temperatures.
Forecasters say this stretch of dangerous cold is likely to last through the weekend of January 24 and 25. People are encouraged to stay indoors as much as possible to avoid serious health risks such as hypothermia.
