Wind chills of -20 C possible in parts of the Lower Mainland, Environment Canada warns

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Parts of the Lower Mainland could get dangerously cold over the next 24 hours, Environment Canada warned Monday.

The weather agency has issued Arctic outflow warnings for Whistler, the Sea to Sky Highway and the eastern part of the Fraser Valley.

“Arctic outflow warnings are issued when bitterly cold air flows from the interior to coastal communities and the outflow winds create wind chill values of -20 C or less for six hours or more,” the warning explains.

The lowest temperatures are forecast for overnight and early Tuesday morning. Anyone going outdoors is urged to dress in warm layers, stay dry, and cover as much skin as possible.

“Frostbite and hypothermia can occur within minutes if adequate precautions are not taken when outdoors,” according to Environment Canada.

Arctic outflow warnings are also in effect for the north coast, including Stewart, Terrace and Kitimat and the central coast, including Bella Coola.

The warnings for those regions urge people to limit outdoor activity and to ensure pets and other outdoor animals are provided with shelter.