Extreme Temperatures: -43c to +38c

"There is no such thing as bad weather, only different kinds of good weather." ~ John Ruskin

"There's no such thing as bad weather - only the wrong clothes." ~ Billy Connolly

"While we would not want to attribute every extreme weather event to climate change - the pattern is building and the costs are rising - the human costs and the financial costs" ~ Edward Davey

My teenage son showed me a satellite heat map comparison of Edmonton, Alberta, during its coldest day in January at -43°C and its hottest day in July at +38°C. He asked, "Dad, which temperature would you rather have?" Without a doubt, I would choose +38°C. I've experienced many -40°C days, which are painful and not enjoyable.

Extreme temperatures have a profound impact on our environment

Accelerating climate change, extreme heat melts polar ice caps, raises sea levels, and results in more frequent heatwaves. It disrupts ecosystems, harms plants and animals, worsens air quality, with well over 400 forest fires per year during the Summer months in Canada, and can lead to water scarcity, which we are starting to see in Canada's fourth-largest city, Calgary. Similarly, extreme cold disrupts ecosystems, damages infrastructure, and affects wildlife behaviour and migration.

To thrive in extreme conditions, our urban planning must embrace green spaces and cool roofs while our building designs incorporate materials that reflect sunlight. Staying hydrated, seeking shade, and limiting outdoor activities during peak heat of +35c or warmer is a must. Embracing energy efficiency in our buildings and utilizing renewable energy can help reduce strain on power grids. When facing extreme cold, our infrastructure should be winter-resistant, our homes well-insulated, and individuals should dress warmly and have emergency plans.

Technology is key in ensuring our safety and comfort during extreme weather

Advanced weather forecasts and satellite pictures help us anticipate and prepare for bad weather. Smart grids and renewable energy make energy use more efficient and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. In farming, precise methods and resilient crops help us cope with severe weather conditions. Wearable gadgets and early warnings keep us informed and secure, even in the face of extreme weather.

While technology is a powerful tool in dealing with extreme weather, its effectiveness is greatly enhanced when it is integrated into broader smart technologies. This integration ensures that technological solutions are available, affordable, and, most importantly, effective in reducing issues from extreme temperatures.