Heat warning in effect and open fires are not permitted in Ottawa

Environment Canada has issued a heat warning across much of Ontario, including Ottawa and The Valley.

Meteorologists forecast the extreme heat event to arrive Saturday and stick around until temperatures cool, mid-next week.

Friday’s temperature did reached 31 C, however more heat is on the horizon. By Tuesday, it’s expected temperatures will hit 34 C with humidex values up 40.

Over the next few days, daily highs will be consistently north of 30 C while lows overnight dip between 19 C and 23 C.

The weather agency says in the warning that there is an end coming to this heatwave. “Slightly cooler temperatures are expected by the middle of next week.”

It’s advised to check on older adults during extreme heat and watch for signs of exhaustion.

Drinking water and staying cool are keys to staying safe.

Ottawa Public Health has plenty of suggestions and options to remain safe during periods of extreme heat. Those can be found here.

Burn ban across Ottawa

A city-wide burn ban is in effect for Ottawa. Open air fires are not permitted.

In Ottawa, to light a fire on private property a permit is required. Residents can apply for a permit through My Service Ottawa and learn more here.

The following types of open fires require a permit:

• Brush piles
• Agricultural burns
• Backyard fireplaces
• Chiminea
• Campfires
• Windrows

There are annual, restricted, agricultural and specific event permits available.

What you can and can’t burn

When in possession of an open fire permit, residents can burn untreated wood, tree limbs and branches. The following items can not be burned under an open fire permit:

• Grass clipping and leaves
• Garbage
• Pressure-treated wood
• Combustibles with toxic fumes
• Flammable liquids
• Plastic and tires

Find all the latest and updated forecast details for Ottawa here.