Heat warning continues for Ottawa with humidex near 40

A heat warning has been issued for Ottawa and surrounding areas as both hot temperatures and high humidity are expected into the weekend.

According to Environment Canada, a hot and humid airmass arrived Aug. 1, bringing maximum daytime temperature of 31.8 C.

Humidex values near 40 are also expected, along with overnight minimum temperatures around 20 C.

The weather agency said that extreme heat can affect everyone’s health, especially older adults, infants and young children, pregnant people, people with physical and/or mental illnesses, and people with disabilities or mobility issues.

People are being advised to drink plenty of water regularly, even before feeling thirsty to decrease the risk of dehydration, limit sun exposure and take breaks in a cool place when possible.

Also, never leave people, particularly children, or pets inside a parked vehicle.

There are a number of ways you can keep cool across Ottawa, including cooling centres, splash pads, public libraries, community centres, pools and beaches.

Visit the Ottawa Public Health (OPH) interactive map for full details.