Heat Alert Issued for Southwestern Ontario This Week

A yellow-level warning is now in effect for a large part of southwestern Ontario as Environment Canada announces that a “long-duration heat event” kicks off on Monday.

Temperatures could soar to 36 C until Friday, potentially stretching into the weekend, only dropping to around 21 to 25 degrees at night. Humidex values are anticipated to hover between 37 and 45 C.

Monday will feel “notably hotter and a little bit more humid,” according to Daniel Sheldon, a meteorologist with Environment Canada, with highs reaching 30 C and a humidex value hitting 38 C.

“The heat and humidity will continue to build Tuesday onward through the end of the week,” he said.

“The thing with this event is that it will last the better part of the week, so at least five days,” he said. “Our overnight lows are going to remain in the low to mid 20s, so there’s not really a break.”

The only possible break, he noted, might come from thunderstorms; however, he added that the “chances are kind of low.”

Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for much of southwestern Ontario starting Monday. Hot and humid conditions are expected to last until at least Friday. (Environment Canada)

Avoiding risk

Watch for signs of heat exhaustion in yourself and others, Environment Canada cautioned, with symptoms including headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine and intense fatigue. If any of these signs show up, it added, stop any activities and drink water.

“Stay hydrated and take lots of breaks if you happen to be outside or having to do any activities outside,” Sheldon advised.

“Check in with folks who are more susceptible to the heat as well.”

Heat stroke is a medical emergency; symptoms can include red or hot skin, dizziness, nausea, confusion and changes in consciousness.

If these symptoms appear in yourself or someone else, call 911 or an emergency health provider right away. While waiting for help, try cooling down the person by moving them somewhere cool, taking off extra clothing and applying cold water or ice packs around their body.

Other tips provided by the weather agency include:

Drink water regularly before feeling thirsty to stay hydrated. Close blinds or shades while opening windows if it’s cooler outside than inside. Turn on air conditioning or fans; move to a cooler area if needed. If your living space is too hot, go somewhere cool like a public space such as a cooling centre or shaded park. Plan outdoor activities during cooler times of day. Limit direct sun exposure wearing lightweight clothing that’s light-colored and loose fitting along with wide-brimmed hats. Never leave people-especially children or pets-in parked vehicles. Follow guidance from your local public health authority.

Sheldon also suggested heading out toward Lake Erie if possible since areas closer to London should have milder temperatures without any heat warnings issued there.

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