Heat warning in effect Ontario all week

A heat warning is in effect for southern Ontario this week, bringing dangerously hot and humid conditions.

According to Environment Canada, daytime highs are forecasted to range between 30 to 35 degrees Celsius, with humidex values soaring to 40 to 45.

Nighttime will offer little respite, as lows are anticipated to hover between 20 to 23 degrees Celsius, accompanied by humidex values of 26 to 30.

The intense heat and humidity can lead to deteriorating air quality, potentially pushing the Air Quality Health Index into the high-risk category.

Here are some of the areas that will be impacted by the heat:

• Mississauga
• Brampton
• Halton
• Burlington
• Milton
• Oakville
• Halton Hills
• Hamilton
• Durham
• Oshawa
• Whitby
• Ajax
• Clarington
• Niagara
• Niagara on the Lake
• Lincoln
• Caledon
• St Catharines

Environment Canada stresses that extreme heat can impact everyone’s health, but certain groups are particularly vulnerable. These include older adults, infants and young children, pregnant individuals, those with physical or mental health conditions, and people with disabilities or mobility issues.

Residents are advised to look out for signs of heat illness, which can include swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and the exacerbation of pre-existing health conditions.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Health Canada urges anyone experiencing or witnessing symptoms such as high body temperature, confusion, the stopping of sweating, or loss of consciousness to call 911 or their local emergency number immediately

While awaiting assistance, it is crucial to move the affected person to a cool area, apply cold water to large skin surfaces, and fan them vigorously, Environment Canada notes.

For more information and updates, individuals are asked to visit Environment Canada’s website here