Yukon is experiencing a significant drop in temperatures this week, leading to a rise in challenges and inconveniences for residents. The recent extreme cold snap has caused various issues, including frozen gas pumps, flight diversions, school bus cancellations, and an increase in road accidents.
Unfortunately, the weather forecast does not offer much relief, as temperatures are expected to remain well below -30°C, and even below -40°C, for at least the next week. Whitehorse woke up to dense ice fog on Thursday morning, which led to the diversion of two planes – an Air North flight and an Air Canada flight. Thankfully, conditions improved at the airport later in the day.
Nigel Cripps, the airport manager, mentioned that ice fog is not uncommon during such extremely cold weather, and both airport staff and airlines are prepared to deal with it. The severe cold also impacted motorists, with gas pumps at some stations, like Pelly Crossing, failing to operate due to temperatures plummeting to -45°C overnight.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) reported a notable increase in motor vehicle collision reports in Whitehorse recently, mostly attributed to drivers following too closely, speeding in poor conditions, or not clearing snow and ice from their windows. Yukon RCMP spokesperson Calista MacLeod emphasized the importance of adjusting driving speed according to visibility and weather conditions.
In addition, police advised drivers to monitor their tire pressure closely during extreme cold as underinflated tires may lose their seal against the rim, leading to potential loss of vehicle control. The education minister of the territory issued an apology to families and students for causing unnecessary stress regarding school bus operations during the cold weather.
Furthermore, the minister clarified that schools will remain open in cold weather, and school buses will continue to operate safely. Steps are being taken to improve the notification system for families in case of bus cancellations due to weather conditions.