‘It’s going to be extremely cold this weekend’: Medicine Hat’s vulnerable population bracing as polar vortex hits

“Cover up as much exposed skin you can. It’s going to be extremely cold this weekend.”

The cold is the hardest on Medicine Hat’s vulnerable population who are experiencing homelessness.

Being out in the extreme cold puts them at higher risk of weather-related illnesses including hypothermia.

One person was seen sleeping in front of city hall Wednesday morning.

While these temperatures are considered dangerous, The Mustard Seed is offering solutions.

The major challenge is the increasing need, Vladimir Duque of The Mustard Seed explained.

“We’ve seen an increase of about 30 people,” Duque said.

The shelter is offering overnight accommodations, transportation and warm meals.

When they need to close to prepare, they offer boots, mitts and heavy coats so that people can keep warm.

Duque urged anyone who sees a vulnerable person to call the police or direct them to the nearest shelter.

The weather is forecasted to improve next week, with seasonal averages of -6 degrees Celsius expected to return Saturday.

by Adrian St.Onge