Extreme cold and smog warning

Most regions of Quebec will have to deal with polar cold this weekend, warns Environment Canada. Smog warnings are also in effect in several areas.

Coralie Laplante
The Press

Extreme wind chill of minus 38 to minus 40 is expected Saturday morning across the province, particularly in the Montreal area.

“Cover up. Frostbite can develop within minutes on skin exposed to wind chill,” warns Environment Canada.

In Abitibi-Témiscamingue, the cold warning is more in effect overnight from Saturday to Sunday.

A smog warning is also effective in several sectors, namely in Beauce, in Estrie, in Gatineau, in Lanaudière, in Lachute, in the Laurentians, in Mauricie, in Laval, in Montreal, in Quebec, in Saguenay, in the Richelieu and Vaudreuil-Soulanges.

“Smog mainly affects children with asthma and people with respiratory or heart disease. It is therefore recommended that they avoid intense physical activity outdoors until the smog warning is lifted,” says Environment Canada.

The institution recommends limiting the use of fireplaces and wood-burning stoves and favoring public transportation. If it is necessary to use his car, it is better to reduce his speed and avoid leaving the engine idling, she also mentions.

“In Quebec, wood heating is the main source of fine particles that contribute to smog in winter. This is the activity that generates the greatest number of these particles, ahead of industrial activity and transport,” reads the warning from the federal agency.