Another heat event will return to most of southern Ontario this weekend, according to a warning issued by Environment Canada.
The federal agency has issued a heat warning for July 5 to 6 as humidex values are expected make it feel like 40 degrees across southern Ontario.
The heat event will span from Windsor to Peterborough, including the Greater Toronto Area, London, Kitchener, Niagara Falls, Guelph, Wasaga Beach, Barrie, Durham region, and the Kawartha Lakes, according to the heat warning alert that was last updated around 12 p.m. on July 4.
Environment Canada expects daytime highs to reach between 31 and 33 degrees, with a humidex value making it feel like 40 degrees. Meanwhile, the night of July 5 is not expected to provide relief from the heat as temperatures are only expected to drop to between 21 and 25 degrees.
The heat event is expected to last for most of the weekend before coming to an end on the night of July 6.
Environment Canada advises to plan outdoor activities for the coolest parts of the day and to limit direct exposure to sun and heat. Additionally, wearing lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing can help to stay cool when outdoors.
“Determine if you or others around you are at greater risk of heat illness,” the heat warning alert says. “Check on older adults, those living alone and other at-risk people in-person or on the phone multiple times a day.”
The agency recommends closing blinds, using air conditioning or a fan, and drinking water often and before feeling thirsty.
The federal agency advises to watch for early signs of heat exhaustion, including headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine, and fatigue, and to respond to these symptoms by stopping activity and drinking water.
“Heat stroke is a medical emergency,” the heat warning reads. “Call 9-1-1 or your emergency health provider if you, or someone around you, is showing signs of heat stroke which can include red and hot skin, dizziness, nausea, confusion and change in consciousness.”
This will be the second significant heat event for the region, as the first heat event took place in southern and eastern Ontario two weeks ago. Environment Canada issued a heat warning alert on June 22, which lasted into June 25 in some areas.
Daytime highs reached 31 to 36 degrees with humidex values of 40 to 45 degrees. Similarly, the nights brought little relief from the heat as temperatures only dropped to 21 to 25 degrees.
