Airdrie Cold Warning: Overnight Warming Space Activated

AIRDRIE, AB — An overnight warming space has opened in Airdrie today as Environment Canada issued a cold warning for the region, triggering the city's extreme weather protocols.

The activation comes through the City of Airdrie's partnership with the Extreme Weather Action Collective, which extends warming space hours when overnight temperatures are forecast to hit -30 Celsius with windchill or colder.

The Scale of Need

The response addresses a documented crisis. The City's 2024 Houselessness Estimation Study, conducted by the Rural Development Network between March and May 2024, identified at least 530 housing insecure residents in Airdrie. High housing costs, health challenges, and low vacancy rates were flagged as primary drivers.

That study highlighted what many suspected: housing insecurity isn't just a big-city problem.

Transit as Lifeline

Airdrie Transit is providing transportation options to help residents access warming spaces and emergency services during the cold snap. The move follows the city's broader strategy to connect vulnerable populations with critical resources when weather turns deadly.

Provincial Context

The warming space activation aligns with provincial efforts to combat homelessness. Alberta's Budget 2025 includes $220 million to address homelessness and an additional $1.8 million specifically for temporary winter shelter spaces across the province.

The City of Airdrie's 2026 Operating Budget, approved December 9, 2025, allocated $299.2 million including updates to Family and Community Support Services strategy and operating grants to Affordable Housing Limited.

As temperatures continue to drop, the warming space remains open. Residents seeking shelter or information can contact the City of Airdrie or access services through Airdrie Transit connections.