An Extreme Cold Warning has been issued for areas of Foothills County.

Environment Canada issued the warning at 3:41 p.m. today (Feb. 22), with the potential for extreme wind chill values near -40 in the evening.

The extreme cold is expected to last through the week, though it may die down during the day.

The warning is in effect for:

  • Foothills Co. near Cayley
  • Foothills Co. near High River and Aldersyde
  • Foothills Co. near Longview and Eden Valley Res.
  • Foothills Co. near Okotoks and De Winton
  • Foothills Co. near Priddis and Brown-Lowery Prov. Park
  • Foothills Co. near Turner Valley and Black Diamond
  • M.D. of Willow Creek near Claresholm and Stavely
  • M.D. of Willow Creek near Nanton and Parkland
  • Rocky View Co. near Bragg Creek and Tsuu T'ina Res.

They warn that the cold could pose a risk to young children, seniors, and those with chronic illnesses.

Frostbite can develop within minutes.

Shortness of breath, chest pain, and numbness are among the symptoms to watch for.