Bitter Chill Freezes the Region
Dryden claims the title of Ontario’s coldest spot this morning, with temperatures plunging to a teeth-chattering -30.4°C. As of 4:00 AM CST, conditions are mainly clear at Dryden Airport, with a wind chill that feels like a stunning -43°C, courtesy of west winds at 18 km/h. The barometric pressure sits at 102.5 kPa, while humidity levels hover at 74%, offering a crisp but dangerously cold morning. Visibility, at least, is a clear 16 km—if you’re brave enough to venture out.
Thursday Forecast: Cold Enough to Freeze Your Smile
The day will feature a mix of sun and cloud, with west winds maintaining a steady 20 km/h. The high temperature will only reach a frosty -22°C, with wind chill values between -42 in the morning and -33 by afternoon. Frostbite remains a serious threat in these conditions.
Thursday Night
Partly cloudy skies and easing winds will bring a low of -28°C. The evening wind chill will hover around -33, improving slightly to -28 overnight, but still cold enough to freeze exposed skin in minutes.
The Weekend Outlook: Slightly Less Miserable
Friday
Sunny skies will return on Friday with temperatures edging to a high of -17°C. Overnight, expect cloudy periods with a low of -17°C.
Saturday
Saturday offers a surprising warm-up, with highs reaching -6°C under a mix of sun and cloud. Nighttime lows will remain chilly at -10°C, but the Arctic grip may start to loosen.
Historic High and Low for December 12
On this date in history, the warmest recorded temperature was a balmy 3.3°C in 1953, while the record low bottomed out at a frosty -34.0°C in 1989. Today’s conditions will give that record low a run for its money!
What to Wear: Arctic Expedition Chic
Layer up as if you’re heading to the North Pole. Thick thermal gear, an insulated parka, wool socks, gloves, hats, and scarves are must-haves. Double-check that no skin is left exposed, as frostbite can strike in minutes.
Cold Weather Safety Tips
- Check in on neighbors, especially the elderly or vulnerable.
- Avoid leaving pets outdoors—they’re just as vulnerable to frostbite.
- Keep your car stocked with emergency supplies, including blankets, water, and jumper cables.
Weather Trivia: How Cold is Too Cold?
Did you know that at wind chills near -40°C, the time it takes for frostbite to occur on exposed skin can be as little as 5 to 10 minutes? This is why proper clothing and shelter are essential in these conditions.
