A sudden cold snap has gripped the southwest with windchill values dipping below -30 degrees.

     Bob Cormier, Meteorologist with Environment Canada, says we can expect these frigid temperatures to last into next week.  He says there won't be a significant break until next week, though there might be a slight warming on Saturday.

     According to Cormier, December typically alternates between near- to above-normal temperatures and cold stretches, which seems to be the case this year.

     Cormier adds that a northerly flow form the Arctic is to blame for the chilling temperatures.