Extremely cold temperatures are expected to hit most of Canada this weekend due to an Arctic air mass. As well, a severe winter storm is forecast for large parts of the United States.

McGill experts are available to comment on various aspects of the situation:

John Gyakum, Professor in the Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, can discuss the weather systems behind extreme cold outbreaks, how climate trends are influencing them, and their impacts on communities and infrastructure.

john.gyakum [at] mcgill.ca (English)

Djordje Romanic, meteorologist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, can discuss the causes and forecasting of extreme cold events, their links to climate variability, and what they mean for weather preparedness and infrastructure resilience.

djordje.romanic [at] mcgill.ca (English, French)

Elena Netchiporouk, Assistant Professor, Division of Dermatology, can discuss the risk of frostbite, including early warning signs, prevention strategies and the potential for long-term damage if left untreated. 

elena.netchiporouk [at] mcgill.ca (English, French) 

François Bouffard, Associate Professor in Electrical Engineering, can discuss how extreme cold temperatures strain power grids, affect electricity demand and reliability, and increase the risk of outages.

francois.bouffard [at] mcgill.ca (English, French)

Eric Latimer, professor in the Department of Psychiatry, research scientist at the Douglas Mental Health University Institute, can speak on homelessness services and policy.

eric.latimer [at] mcgill.ca (English, French)

Jayne Malenfant is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Education. They can speak on current mobilizations and advocacy happening with people experiencing homelessness and their allies.

jayne.malenfant [at] mcgill.ca (English, French)