Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for parts of Ontario and Quebec as temperatures are expected to rise to 45 degrees Celsius with the humidex this weekend and continue through to mid-week.
Significant heat conditions in southern and eastern Ontario as well as southern and western Quebec will begin on June 22 and are expected to last into June 25 in some areas, the federal agency said in its initial warning on June 21.
Daytime highs are expected to reach 31 to 36 degrees with humidex values making it feel like 40 to 45 degrees, while overnight temperatures are only expected to drop to 21 to 25 degrees, “providing little relief from the heat.”
The weather agency expects a cold front to push through some areas late Tuesday, but says there is uncertainty with how far south the front will reach. If it remains further north, the heat event could last into June 25 in southwestern Ontario.
The more northern affected regions in Ontario, including Sault Ste. Marie, Sudbury, and North Bay, are only expected to be slightly cooler with daytime highs of 29 to 33 degrees, humidex values near 40 degrees, and overnight lows of 18 to 21 degrees.
Parts of the region could see relief from the cold front pushing through on the night of June 23, however the heat event could last into June 24 for some areas in the region if the cold front remains further north.
In Quebec, a “warm and humid air mass” is expected to gradually move over the province on June 22 and is expected to ease on June 25.
Extreme Heat Risks
The federal agency encourages people to stay hydrated by drinking water often and before feeling thirsty, and to schedule outdoor activities during the coolest parts of the day when possible.The agency advises limiting direct exposure to sun and heat, and wearing “lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.”
Environment Canada says to look for early signs of heat exhaustion, including headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine, and fatigue, and to stop activity and drink water in response to these symptoms.
Heat stroke is an emergency requiring medical attention, the federal agency says.
“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,” Environment Canada said.
“While you wait for medical attention, try to cool the person by moving them to a cool place, removing extra clothing, applying cold water or ice packs around the body.”
When at home, the agency recommends closing blinds or shades and opening windows if the outside temperature is cooler than the inside temperature. When possible the agency advises turning on air conditioning, using a fan, or moving to cooler areas of the house.
Those whose homes are too hot could find relief by moving to a cooler space in public such as a cooling centre, community centre, library, or shaded park, Environment Canada says.
