Environment Canada has issued heat warnings for the entire Kawarthas region for the next three to four days, beginning Monday (July 13).
“Yellow” heat warnings are in effect for Peterborough County, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland County, Haliburton County, and Hastings Highlands.
A heat event will begin Monday and end either Wednesday evening or Thursday evening.
Maximum daytime temperatures of 30 to 36°C are expected, with nighttime temperatures of 20 to 23°C.
Tuesday will mark the peak of the heat event, with maximum temperatures reaching near 36°C in some areas.
Humidex values of 38 to 45°C are expected.
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, and 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.
