Summer Comes Early: Heat Warning in Effect for Winnipeg as Temperatures Soar into the Mid-30s
WINNIPEG – WEATHER REPORT – Winnipeg is cranking up the thermostat this week as the city faces its first Heat Warning of the season, with temperatures climbing into the mid-30s and sultry overnight lows offering little relief. The warning, issued by Environment Canada, is in full effect through Wednesday, as southern Manitoba sizzles in early summer-like conditions that could make your sidewalk hot enough to fry a prairie egg.
Sizzling Start to the Week: The Forecast Through Wednesday
As of 6:00 AM CDT, it’s already a balmy 20.6°C at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport under mostly cloudy skies. Winds from the south are brisk at 28 km/h, gusting to 40 km/h, adding to the toasty feel of the morning. Humidity is at a dry 34%, while the barometric pressure is dropping at 99.9 kPa, a classic sign that we’re in for dynamic and potentially unstable weather.
Today will feature a mix of sun and cloud with a 30 percent chance of showers this morning—though don’t expect much relief from those raindrops. Winds will strengthen to 30 km/h gusting to 50 km/h from the south, pushing temperatures to a blistering 34°C. The UV index is set to hit 8, officially very high, so don’t leave home without your hat, sunglasses, and SPF 50.
Tonight, skies will clear, but the heat will hang on like a Winnipeg mosquito in July. The overnight low will hover at a sticky 21°C, with persistent south winds at 40 km/h gusting to 60 km/h—perfect for drying out laundry, but not so great for cooling off.
Tuesday brings more of the same: blazing sunshine and a high of 35°C, with a humidex making it feel closer to 36°C. Winds will continue from the south at 40 km/h gusting to 60 km/h, ensuring the hot air just keeps on coming. The night offers a brief reprieve with clear skies and a low of 15°C—slightly cooler, but still well above seasonal norms.
Wednesday remains sunny and sizzling with a high of 34°C. The weather will finally shift Wednesday night with showers and a more comfortable low of 15°C—hopefully bringing the city some relief from this prolonged heat event.
Wardrobe Tips for the Heat Wave
This week is all about loose, light-coloured, breathable clothing—linen shirts, cotton dresses, and a trusty wide-brimmed hat. Keep the heavy jeans and dark shirts buried deep in your closet. Hydration is key—carry that water bottle everywhere, and try to limit outdoor activities to the early morning or later in the evening when temperatures are slightly more forgiving.
If you can, make friends with your air conditioner, fan, or a well-shaded spot under your favourite elm tree. And remember, check on elderly neighbours, friends, and those who might be more vulnerable in this kind of extreme heat.
Historical Highs and Lows for May 12
On this day, Winnipeg’s record high is 34.5°C, while the record low is -3.3°C. This year’s forecast high of 34°C means we are hot on the heels of the city’s all-time record for the date—so, yes, history is sizzling!
Prairie Heatwave Trivia
Did you know? Winnipeg holds the dubious honour of having one of the greatest temperature extremes in Canada, from -47.8°C to 42.2°C. This week’s weather is just a gentle reminder of that upper end of the scale—and yes, it’s time to switch from wool socks to flip-flops.
