Scorching hot weather forecast for Friday has prompted the Middlesex London Health Unit to issue its first heat alert of the summer.
Temperatures across southwestern Ontario are forecast to soar to a daytime high of 32 C heading into the Canada Day long weekend, but will feel more like 38 C because of the humidity.
The alert will only remain in effect for Friday as Environment Canada anticipates temperature to ease slightly Saturday to 27 C during the day.
“The young and the young at heart will be celebrating Canada Day this weekend, enjoying the sunshine and outdoor activities. While this heat alert will only be in place tomorrow, it’s going to take some planning to enjoy the weekend to the fullest,” Dave Pavletic, the health unit's environmental health manager, said in a statement. “That means taking breaks in air-conditioned spaces, seeking shade when outdoors, drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated, using sunblock, and covering exposed skin with light clothing.”
Symptoms of heat-related illness include rapid breathing, weakness or fainting, fatigue, headache, and confusion. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should get help from a medical professional.
The health unit issues heat alerts when Environment Canada forecasts daytime highs of 31 C or higher for one day or more and when humidex values reach 40 C or higher for at least 24 hours.
Heat warnings and extended heat warnings are issued by public health officials when sweltering weather sticks around for two or more days in a row.
In addition to the heat, the London region could see a few showers and even a thunderstorm Friday afternoon. The rest of the long weekend is expected to be mainly sunny and warm, except for a slight chance of showers late in the day Saturday.
Southwest of London, Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for Chatham-Kent and Windsor-Essex. That is expected to remain in place through to Canada Day.
