Stay safe as temperatures drop – be winter ready and check on others who may be vulnerable

A period of extended cold weather with freezing temperatures is expected to last through Tuesday, January 16, 2024. And Environment Canada has issued an Arctic outflow warning for Thursday evening (January 11) to Saturday afternoon (January 13). 

The Environment Canada warning notes that:

• Arctic air and strong winds will generate wind chill values of minus 20 degrees Celsius;
• frostbite and hypothermia can occur within minutes if adequate precautions are not taken when outdoors;
• if outside, dress warmly in layers and stay dry; and
• cover as much exposed skin as possible to avoid frostbite. 

For cold weather health and safety information, please visit fraserhealth.ca. For tips on how you can be winter ready, please visit portmoody.ca/weather. Anyone looking for a place to warm up is welcome to visit the public areas of the Port Moody Recreation Complex (300 Ioco Road) or the Civic Centre (100 Newport Drive) during regular operating hours. 

If you are seeking relief from the cold overnight, please visit portmoody.ca for resources, including information on the Extreme Weather Response Shelter operated by Progressive Housing Society on the worst-weather nights of the year. The shelter, when activated, operates out of Port Moody’s Kyle Centre. Walk-ups are not permitted; please call 604-209-1587 to arrange for pick up. 

If you are able, check on neighbours who are vulnerable, elderly, and/or have mobility challenges. If you need help or you are looking for information on behalf of vulnerable individuals, consider calling 2-1-1. 211 British Columbia is a free and confidential service that connects people to helpful and vital resources in their community. Dial or text 2-1-1 to be connected with a resource navigator who will provide information and referral to available social, government, and community supports and services that can help with:

• basic needs like food and shelter;
• mental health and addictions support;
• legal and financial assistance;
• supports for seniors, newcomers, and much more. 

There is currently no snow in the forecast over the next few days, but weather forecasts can change quickly. If snow is expected, please visit portmoody.ca/snowandice to learn about the City’s response priorities and the responsibilities of property and business owners and strata corporations. If someone helps you with snow removal or you see someone pitching in, help us say thank-you by nominating them to be a Snow Star at portmoody.ca/snowstars. Please note the City’s social media channels are not monitored 24/7. Report a problem by filling out our online form at portmoody.ca/snowandice or by calling 604-469-4574.