Winnipeg is feeling the chill after a mild start to the year. Climatologist Dave Phillips shares that the city can expect a deep freeze, but there’s a bit of hope for warmer weather in February.
Manitoba enjoyed its warmest fall in 78 years, and January started off relatively mild. However, temperatures are set to plummet below -30°C, significantly cooler than the usual high of -13°C for this time of year. Phillips noted that this drop will likely be the coldest point of winter, with the next ten days bringing more biting cold.
“We’re in for a brutal stretch,” Phillips told CBC Manitoba’s Information Radio. He attributes the wild swings in weather to the warming Arctic, which makes jet streams behave unpredictably—sometimes dragging in cold air and other times pulling in warmer air.
While this week will be tough, Phillips sees a silver lining: forecasts indicate that February should bring warmer-than-normal temperatures. “It’s a sign that we might be through the worst of it,” he said.
Historically, Manitoba has experienced dramatic winter weather. In 2019, for example, similar fluctuations were noted, causing shifts in daily life and infrastructure strain. People had to adjust their activities and dress accordingly, showing just how much weather impacts our daily lives.
Social media is buzzing as residents share their reactions to the sudden cold snap. Many are joking about layering up and breaking out old winter gear. These humorous takes reflect a community that stands together even in harsh weather.
So while the current cold may feel endless, warmer days are just around the corner. Keeping an eye on forecasts can help folks plan for the ups and downs of Manitoba’s winter weather. For more details on climate trends and forecasts, check out resources from Environment and Climate Change Canada.
