THUNDER BAY – WEATHER – “Hot Enough for YOU?” That ages old Canadian saying is likely to be used a lot today. There is a Heat Warning out for much of Northwestern Ontario today issued by Environment Canada.
Heat Warning in effect for:
- City of Thunder Bay
- Dryden
- Kenora
- Fort Frances
- Atikokan
- Upsala
- Ignace
- Nipigon
Humidex values reaching near 40 are expected.
A sizzling mid summer airmass has moved into Northwestern Ontario from the Northern United States. Temperatures are expected to climb into the low thirties today, Thursday and Friday. Also, afternoon humidex values will reach near 40.
With early morning low temperatures in the upper teens to low twenties, little relief is expected from the heat and humidity however there is a chance of a brief shower or thunderstorm this week.
This heat event is expected to come to an end on Saturday when cooler and less humid air arrives from the west.
Heat illnesses are preventable.
While heat can put everyone at risk from heat illnesses, health risks are greatest for
– older adults;
– infants and young children;
– people with chronic illnesses such as breathing difficulties, heart conditions or psychiatric illnesses;
– people who work in the heat;
– people who exercise in the heat;
– homeless people; and
– people without access to air conditioning.
Watch for symptoms of heat illness, which include
– dizziness or fainting, nausea or vomiting
– headache
– rapid breathing and heartbeat
– extreme thirst and
– decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine.
If you experience any of these symptoms during a heat event, immediately move to a cool place and drink liquids. Water is best.
Frequently visit neighbours, friends and older family members, especially those who are chronically ill, to make sure that they are cool and hydrated.
Never leave people or pets in your care inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.
