Extreme Cold

Extreme Temperatures

The City of St. Albert is activating its extreme weather response. It will be in effect from Feb. 1 to 19. If weather conditions remain extremely cold beyond this time frame, the response will be extended.

While cold weather affects everyone, the very aged and very young are more susceptible to it. Members of our community, including those who are vulnerably unhoused, are most at risk. Keep your eyes open for people who may be struggling with the frigid temperatures.  

The City has initiated enhanced services to ensure everyone’s safety as we face these extreme weather conditions. Our extreme cold weather response will be initiated when: 

  • actual temperatures have reached or are forecasted to be - 20°C or below 
  • an Environment Canada Extreme Weather Alert has been issued and temperatures or wind chill are expected to reach - 20°C for at least two hours

Coordinated Efforts During Extreme Cold  

If you do not have access to a heated location of your own, please visit these public buildings during regular business hours to get out of the cold:  

City facilities: 

  Community facilities: 

Other Supports and Partners 

  • During extremely cold weather, St. Albert Transit drivers will allow individuals to board the bus at no cost if they are unable to pay. As well, express buses will stop at bus stops normally served by St. Albert Transit "non-express" routes, if an individual motions they wish to board. Transfers can be obtained if requested for a 90-minute time period. 
    • Throughout the year, regardless of weather, no cost emergency bus tickets are available by visiting the City of St. Albert Community Services at St. Albert Place (5 St. Anne Street) during regular business hours.  
  • St. Albert Food Bank and Community Village (30-50 Bellerose Drive) is a significant partner in providing community support for vulnerable persons.   
    • The Community Village offers a short-term warming location, temporary accommodations, shower and washroom facilities, food and water. Staff may also assist with finding overnight shelter.
  • Outside of regular business hours for all facilities, St. Albert RCMP or Municipal Enforcement Services may encounter and assist or can be called to assist unhoused residents in need of shelter in urgent situations. 
  • Dial 2-1-1 or visit www.ab.211.ca for free supports to connect to a variety of community resources. This includes information on where to access shelter, food, and other basic needs.

Medical Distress  

If someone is in medical distress, please call 9-1-1 immediately.

If members of the public are concerned about someone who is vulnerably unhoused, they can call:

Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones 

Here are some simple things you can do to protect yourself in cold weather. 

  • Stay safe, warm and protected. 
  • Stay indoors when possible. If you have to travel by vehicle, know your route ahead of time and make sure you have a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle. 
  • Dress in warm windproof layers. Watch for signs of frostbite, which can occur in less than 10 minutes in extreme cold. 
  • When working outside, do not overexert yourself. Sweating can lead to hypothermia, which can be fatal. 
  • Make sure your pets have warm shelter during a cold snap. 

(courtesy of Government of Alberta)

 


Related Pages

Last edited: February 14, 2025