Just in time for the kids to head back to school, Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for the entire greater Kawarthas region over the next few days., with the hottest days expected to be Tuesday (September 5) and Wednesday.
The heat warning is in effect for Peterborough County, the City of Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland County, Haliburton County, and Hastings County.
A hot and humid air mass is expected through at least mid-week. As the week progresses, daytime highs are expected to increase to near 31°C to 35°C, with humidex values near 40°C. The hottest days look to be Tuesday and Wednesday. Overnight lows for some areas will fall to just below alert criteria, mainly in rural areas.
According to Environment Canada, the humidex values and daytime highs will be very atypical of early September.
The passage of a cold front will bring an end to the heat later in the week, possibly Wednesday night or Thursday, but the timing of the front is still uncertain.
During a heat warning, the risks are greater for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses and people working or exercising outdoors. Watch for the effects of heat illness: swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of some health conditions.
Drink plenty of water even before you feel thirsty and stay in a cool place. Check on older family, friends and neighbours. Make sure they are cool and drinking water. Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle.
