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Environment Canada’s warning maps from the southeastern corner of Saskatchewan to the western edges of Quebec resemble flames, yellow and orange, which should be about right this week as the four provinces sizzle in temperatures that will feel like the mid-40s Celsius with humidity.
Southern and central parts of Manitoba and almost all of Ontario, including Toronto and Ottawa, are under a heat warning, with the weather agency warning of high humidity, heat exhaustion and, in some places, poor air quality.
Yellow warnings indicate hazardous weather that “may cause” disruption or health impacts, while orange warnings “likely” will cause them. Monday’s orange warnings extend from just south of Regina east through Winnipeg to the Quebec border.
Temperatures above 30 degrees are expected in all warning zones, including a high of 38 degrees in Thunder Bay, Ont.
Records fall in Manitoba
Saskatchewan, Manitoba and northwestern Ontario are expected to see peak heat today, while other regions under warnings will be even hotter on Tuesday. Records are already being set in Manitoba, where seven communities set new temperature records on Sunday, including Portage la Prairie, which broke a record set during World War II with a temperature of 35.7C.
Environment Canada says the looming hot, humid air could cause air quality, already recently tainted by wildfire smoke, to deteriorate again.
The City of Toronto says water and cooling plants, as well as swimming pools, beaches and splash pads, will be available to the public. Winnipeg’s leisure centers and libraries are also open as recreation areas.
Search online for cooling centers in your area.
Safety Tips
Environment Canada says people should watch closely for signs of heat exhaustion, which include headaches, dizziness, thirst and fatigue. Anyone showing signs of heatstroke should call 911.
Elderly people, single people and other at-risk people should be tested several times a day, the warning said.
People fill water bottles at Bluesfest in Ottawa on Sunday. (Isabelle Harder/CBC)
More tips from Environment Canada:
- Drink water often and before you feel thirsty.
- Close blinds or curtains and open windows if it’s cooler outside than inside.
- If your living space is hot, move to a cool public area, such as a cooling center, community center, library or shady park.
- Plan outdoor activities during the coolest part of the day.
- Wear light, light, loose clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Follow the recommendations of your local health authorities.
Is this weather normal? Track climate change in your area here.
Two people hand out bottles of water to people on Main Street in Winnipeg during the sweltering heat on Saturday. (Ron Dhaliwal/CBC)