The current heat wave affecting eastern Ontario and western Quebec is set to peak later Tuesday, with some areas expected to record their hottest temperature of the year.
Tuesday’s highs are predicted to reach the mid-30s with humidity making it feel like it’s in the low 40s. The temperature is likely to remain above 20 C overnight, along with persistent humidity.
If Ottawa hits the anticipated high of 35 C, it will mark the hottest day of 2026. Other places such as Brockville and Kingston may also break daily heat records.
This intense heat has led some businesses to close temporarily.
“We decided to shut down, essentially, for the next two days,” said Sarah Bowen, social media manager for the Heart and Soul Café in Dunrobin on Tuesday morning.
“We just want to keep our staff safe. The kitchen temperature is going to get out of hand, even with air conditioning and all the fans running.”
Environment Canada issued heat warnings for the area starting Sunday afternoon. On Monday, temperatures peaked at around 30 C in Ottawa late in the afternoon, but humidity made it feel like 35.
The warnings are expected to lift on Wednesday as both temperatures and humidity gradually decrease.
Many municipalities including Ottawa provide lists or maps of public places where people can cool off, which may include designated cooling centres.
Individuals should be vigilant for signs of heat exhaustion such as headaches, dizziness, thirst, and fatigue, according to the weather agency.
If anyone shows symptoms of heat stroke, they should call 911 immediately, they added.
This extreme heat is also raising fire risks in Pontiac and certain parts of Algonquin Park. Risks are deemed very high or high elsewhere too; restrictions are in place including a burn ban across western Quebec.
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Thunderstorm watch in Outaouais
Western Quebec is currently under a severe thunderstorm watch for Tuesday afternoon and evening. Potential risks include tornadoes, strong winds, hail, heavy rain along with lightning strikes. A tornado watch or warning would be issued if conditions suggest an increased possibility of a tornado occurring. All local alerts are yellow-the lowest level on Environment Canada’s three-colour alert system introduced in 2025.Source link
