Extreme Weather Response Shelters Open
“A cool and unstable airmass over the South Coast will bring freezing levels to near sea level before Tuesday morning,” stated Environment and Climate Change Canada, highlighting the urgency of the situation in Surrey and surrounding areas.
In response to the forecasted frigid temperatures, extreme weather response shelters in Delta will be operational on March 9 and 10. The women’s only shelter at Crossroads United Church will be open from 9 p.m. to 6:30 a.m., providing 10 inclusive spaces for self-identified women aged 19 and over.
Additionally, the South Delta emergency weather response shelter at Ladner United Church will accommodate up to nine guests aged 19 and over, including couples, from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m.
The Homelessness Services Association of BC issued an extreme weather response alert for Delta on March 8, underscoring the need for these shelters as temperatures are expected to feel at or below 0°C.
Environment Canada has also issued a special weather statement for the region, indicating the potential for snowfall on March 10 and 11. Current forecast guidance suggests that snowfall accumulations could range from 2 to 5 cm, although “due to the convective nature of the precipitation, snowfall accumulations will be highly variable across the region,” according to Environment Canada.
As the community prepares for these weather challenges, Options Community Services and BC Housing are working collaboratively to ensure that vulnerable populations have access to safe shelter during this extreme weather event.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the weather impact, but local authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary.
The opening of these shelters marks a critical response to the ongoing challenges posed by severe weather conditions, particularly for those experiencing homelessness in the area.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the weather and to check on vulnerable neighbors during this period of extreme cold and potential snowfall.
