An extreme cold warning is in effect for most of Saskatchewan including Saskatoon. A cold, arctic air mass is entrenched over southern Saskatchewan. extreme cold wind chill values of -40 to -46 are being reported over most of southern and central Saskatchewan this morning. Even colder wind chill values are expected tonight into Thursday morning, with a few areas expected to reach wind chill values of -50.

The Saskatchewan government is emphasizing the Cold Weather Strategy in light of extreme temperatures that are dangerous for those spending time outside, especially those who don’t have shelter or a home. Social Services Minister Paul Merriman says shelter spaces are still available across the province and they encourage anyone who finds themselves without shelter to contact the Ministry of Social Services, the ministry’s community partners or 911. Merriman says Mobile Crisis Services collaborates with over a dozen community partners and if you are aware of someone who might be at risk, call.

In Saskatoon, the Salvation Army can be contacted by calling 306-244-6280. They provide emergency services and referrals 24 hours a day, seven days a week. During weekday business hours, people may visit the Ministry of Social Services’ Saskatoon Service Centre at 160 – 2nd Avenue South for assistance.

In Prince Albert, Prince Albert Mobile Crisis is available after hours at 306-764-1011 and will connect callers with shelter supports. YWCA after-hours emergency services for men and women at Our House (15th Street Location) are available by calling 306-922-6162.

In Regina, Mobile Crisis Services provides services and referrals 24 hours a day, seven days a week and can be reached at 306-757-0127. During weekday business hours, people can drop into the Ministry of Social Services’ Regina Service Centre at 2045 Broad Street for assistance.

A list of services for other communities in the province can be found at the link below:

http://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/family-and-social-support/find-a-social-services-office