Yellow Cold Warning Issued for Mackenzie County Near Bistcho Lake
Environment Canada has issued a yellow cold warning for the Bistcho Lake area, with wind chills expected to reach minus 40 or lower through the week.
Alert Details
Environment Canada has issued a yellow cold warning for Mackenzie County. The alert is currently in effect as extreme wind chill values pose a significant risk to public safety.
Affected Areas
The primary geographic region impacted by this warning is Mackenzie Co. near Bistcho Lake.
What You Should Do
Residents are advised that extreme cold puts everyone at risk, particularly young children, older adults, individuals with chronic illnesses, those working or exercising outdoors, and people without proper shelter.
Watch for cold-related symptoms, including:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Muscle pain and weakness
- Numbness and color change in fingers and toes
To report severe weather, residents can email [email protected], call 1-800-239-0484, or post reports on X using the hashtag #ABStorm.
Expected Conditions
A period of very cold wind chills near or below minus 40 is currently occurring. While conditions are expected to moderate slightly on Wednesday afternoon for some areas, the extreme cold is forecast to return at night and persist through the remainder of the week.
Timeline
The alert was issued on February 18, 2026, and is currently scheduled to remain in effect until 9:38 PM local time. Conditions are expected to fluctuate with brief moderation on Wednesday afternoon before returning to extreme levels at night.
Source: ECCC Official Notice