Environment Canada has issued heat warnings for the Kawarthas region for the next four to five days, beginning Tuesday (June 30).
“Orange” heat warnings are in effect for southern Peterborough County, southern Kawartha Lakes, and Northumberland County, with “yellow” heat warnings in effect for northern Peterborough County and northern Kawarthas Lakes.
A long duration heat event will begin Tuesday and continue through Friday and possibly into Saturday.
The southern areas of the region have “orange” heat warnings as maximum daytime temperatures of 31 to 33°C expected, possibly reaching as high as 36°C. There will be little relief at night, with minimum temperatures of 21 to 24°C.
The northern areas of the region have “yellow” heat warnings as temperatures will be slightly more moderate, with maximum daytime temperatures of 31 to 33°C expected and minimum temperatures of 21 to 23°C. However, humidex values of 34 to 36°C are also expected.
The hottest days are expected to be Wednesday (Canada Day) and Thursday, with maximum temperatures of 34 to 36°C expected in the southern areas of the region and 34°C in the northern areas of the region.
The City of Peterborough is encouraging residents who need of a place to cool down to visit the following city-operated facilities during regular business hours.
The Peterborough Public Library (345 Aylmer St. N.) is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., the Miskin Law Community Complex (271 Lansdowne St. W.) from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., and the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre (775 Brealey Dr.) from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Note that, on Canada Day, the Peterborough Public Library is closed and the Miskin Law Community Complex and Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre are only open until 2 p.m.
Environment Canada recommends taking action to protect yourself and others as extreme heat can affect everyone’s health:
- Drink water often and before you feel thirsty to replace fluids.
- Close blinds, or shades and open windows if outside is cooler than inside.
- Turn on air conditioning, use a fan, or move to a cooler area of your living space. If your living space is hot, move to a cool public space such as a cooling centre, community centre, library, or shaded park.
- Plan and schedule outdoor activities during the coolest parts of the day.
- Limit direct exposure to the sun and heat. Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Never leave people, especially children, or pets inside a parked vehicle. Check the vehicle before locking to make sure no one is left behind.
Determine if you or others around you are at greater risk of heat illness. Check on older adults, those living alone, and other at-risk people in-person or on the phone multiple times a day.
Watch for the early signs of heat exhaustion in yourself and others. Signs may include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine, and intense fatigue. Stop your activity and drink water.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call 9-1-1 or your emergency health provider if you, or someone around you, is showing signs of heat stroke which can include red and hot skin, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and change in consciousness. While you wait for medical attention, try to cool the person by moving them to a cool place, removing extra clothing, applying cold water or ice packs around the body.
Hot and humid air can also bring deteriorating air quality and can result in the Air Quality Health Index approaching the high-risk category.
