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. In response to the frigid temperatures, extreme weather response shelters in Delta will be open on March 9 and 10.
The women’s only shelter at Crossroads United Church will operate from 9 p.m. to 6:30 a.m., providing 10 inclusive spaces for self-identified women aged 19 and over. Meanwhile, the South Delta EWR shelter at Ladner United Church will be available from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m., accommodating up to nine guests aged 19 and over, including couples.
As temperatures are expected to feel at or below 0°C, the need for these shelters has become critical. The Homelessness Services Association of BC issued an extreme weather response alert for Delta on March 8, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
In addition to the cold weather, Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for potential snow on March 10 and 11. “Due to the convective nature of the precipitation, snowfall accumulations will be highly variable across the region,” the agency noted.
Current forecast guidance indicates the potential for 2 to 5 cm of snow, with accumulations expected to vary significantly. This variability adds to the challenges faced by local emergency services and shelters as they prepare for the incoming weather.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact impact of the snowfall on local infrastructure and services. However, the community is urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions as the weather develops.
As the situation unfolds, local organizations such as Options Community Services and BC Housing are working to ensure that vulnerable populations have access to safe shelter during this extreme weather event.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from Environment Canada and local authorities regarding weather conditions and shelter availability in Surrey and surrounding areas.
