Warming Centres Open This Weekend Through Severe Cold Snap

The City of Campbell River is keeping its warming centre open at the Community Centre, overnight through the weekend.

The call, not unexpectedly, was made yesterday afternoon.

The Centre will be open from 11pm to 7am through to at least Monday morning.

Environment Canada has issued an Arctic Outflow Warning for East Vancouver Island from Courtenay to Campbell River.

An arctic front is bringing cold air to the region, along with winds of 20 kph, generating wind chill values near minus 20 through tonight, with things easing tomorrow.

Community members are being reminded that frostbite and hypothermia can occur within minutes if adequate precautions are not taken when outdoors.

Campbell River staff say they will re-assess the need for a Warming Centre on Monday.

Warming centres have also been activated in the Comox Valley and further south on Vancouver Island.

In Courtenay, the Lower Native Sons Hall will be available from 10pm to 7am for the duration of the cold snap.

The Denman Island Community Hall has services offered 24-hours a day, while residents can head to the Joe King Ball Park on Hornby Island during daytime hours.