Heat warning in effect for Ottawa

By Saif Kaisar

Ottawa Public Health is warning residents to take precautions as very hot temperatures are expected Sunday and Monday.

Extreme heat can cause dehydration, heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and sometimes even death.

A heat warning is issued when temperatures are expected to exceed 31°C during the daytime, and the temperature at night is not expected to be cooler than 20°C. Or if a humidex of 40°C is in the forecast for two consecutive days.

Sunday's forecast is mainly sunny at a high of 32°C. Humidex 37. UV index 8 or very high.

The night won't bring too much comfort, as the low is 20°C.

Monday's forecast see's a mix of sun and cloud, 30 per cent chance of showers in the late afternoon with risk of a thunder storm. The high is 33°C. Humidex 30. 

Monday night will see cloudy periods a 60 per cent chance of showers. Low 20°C.

Tips and advice from Ottawa Public Health:

  • Stay connected with people in your community who have a difficult time coping with hot weather and those who live alone and check on them regularly.
  • Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, preferably water and limit or avoid caffeine and alcohol.
  • Avoid strenuous outdoor physical activity.
  • Limit or avoid direct exposure to the sun and wear a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and SPF lip balm. Dress in light and loose fitting clothing.
  • Look for shade or a cool shelter in an air-conditioned location such as a shopping mall, cinema, library or community centre.
  • If taking part in outdoor activities, especially where large crowds are expected, please limit your exposure by planning where to seek shelter from the heat.
  • Never leave children, the elderly or pets unattended in a car, even with the windows open.
  • Take frequent cool showers or baths.  If you cannot shower or bath easily, sponge often with cool wet towels. Focus on cooling the back of the neck, under the arms and groin area. Soak feet and hands in a basin of cool water..
  • The rest of the week should see cooler temperatures.

Tuesday a mix of sun and cloud a 40 per cent chance of showers, high of 28°C. Low 13°C.

Wednesday forecasted to be sunny, high of 27°C.  Low 13°C.

Thursday stays sunny at a high of 30°C. Low 16°C.

Friday a mix of sun and cloud at a high of 31°C. Low 18°C.

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