Temperatures are forecast to drop significantly in Whistler, hitting an overnight low of –22 C on Thursday and –23 C on Friday, according to Environment Canada.  

Please be conscious of the following, adapted from the Government of Canada, and read up on the seven steps to cold weather safety. 

Clothing 

• Dress warmly. Consider layers, with an outer layer that is wind resistant. 
• Cover up. Frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin, especially with wind chill. Watch for colour changes on fingers and toes, pain, numbness, a tingling sensation, or swelling. 
• Keep dry to stay warmer. 
• Keep moving to maintain your body heat and seek shelter from the wind. 

Pets 

• If it’s too cold for you to stay outside, it’s too cold for your pet to stay outside. 

Health 

• Ask a health professional how medications or health conditions can affect your risk in the cold. For example, a person with a heart condition should avoid strenuous activities like shoveling snow. 
• Check on older family, friends and neighbours. 

Vehicles and Homes 

• Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle such as extra blankets and jumper cables. 
• Make sure your home is well-insulated, the heating system is working efficiently and seal off cracks and drafts. 

The BC Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness also urges backcountry users to watch of conditions and use extreme caution in mountainous terrain. Visit the Avalanche Canada website or mobile app to get the latest avalanche forecasts and learn more about staying safe from avalanches.    

A reminder that extreme weather response shelters are run locally by Whistler Community Services Society. They open if temperatures are -10C or below, or if temperatures are 0C with adverse weather conditions (snowfall, heavy rainfall, blizzard, etc.). Check for details at mywcss.org or their social channels to see when the shelter is activated.   

The Whistler Public Library is also available as a warming center during open hours: 

Monday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.