How hot is it going to be next week?
Hot enough that the Middlesex London Health Unit is giving people a three day heads up that an extended heat warning is expected to be issued on Monday.
"We are notifying everyone to be prepared and take precautions to be safe," the health unit said in a statement issued Friday.
Environment Canada is calling for the daytime high on Monday to soar to 33 C and remain in the low-to-mid 30s into Thursday. Little relief from the heat will come in the evening and overnight hours as the low for each night next week is forecast to still be in the low 20s.
This meets the criteria for the national weather agency to issue an extended heat warning for the region. For an extended heat warning to be put in effect one or more of the following has to happen; the daytime high must be 31 C or higher and the low 20 C or higher for three consecutive days or longer and the humidex reaches values of 40 C or higher for three straight days or longer.
Extreme heat can lead to illnesses, particularly in infants, seniors, people with chronic medical conditions such as heart disease and respiratory issues, those with limited mobility, and people who work outdoors. Symptoms of heat related illness include headache, confusion, dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting, and muscle or abdominal cramps.
To avoid getting sick from the heat, the health unit recommends the following:
Drink plenty of water and natural juices throughout the day, even if you don't feel very thirsty.
Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages, or beverages that contain caffeine like coffee, tea and cola.
Avoid spending extended periods of time outside during extreme heat.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat outdoors.
Keep window shades or drapes drawn and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home.
Keep electric lights off or turned down low.
Take a cool bath or shower periodically or cool down with cool, wet towels.
Wear loose fitting, light clothing.
Avoid eating heavy meals and using your oven.
Avoid intense or moderately intense physical activity.
Never leave a child or pet in a parked car or sleeping outside in direct sunlight.
