Public health officials are urging residents to take precautions as they celebrate Canada's 151st birthday this weekend.
Environment Canada has a heat warning in effect and a special air quality statement has been issued.
High temperatures of 33 C (91 F) and humidex values in the mid-40s are forecast for both Saturday and Canada Day Sunday.
Lambton Public Health Supervisor Lori Lucas says it's vital we stay hydrated while enjoying the long weekend.
"The best thing we can do is to try to protect ourselves from the sun and its harmful rays," says Lucas. "If you're going outside, wearing sunscreen, wearing lightweight loose-fitting clothing is important, and sunglasses. Seeking shade wherever you can under large trees, and bringing an umbrella with you, but it's really important to be drinking plenty of fluids, and ideally water."
The extreme heat and humidity will cause moderate to high pollution levels due to increased ground-level ozone concentrations in the area.
Moderate Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) values are expected with the potential for short-term high AQHI values at times Friday and through the weekend.
Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk.
Visit www.airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk and your personal contribution to pollution levels, as well as for current and forecast AQHI values.
For information about cooling centre locations, extreme heat and your health, click here.
