Ahead of a heatwave that will see temperatures soar to the low-to-mid 30s this long weekend, the Middlesex London Health Unit has issued an extended heat warning.
Beginning Friday, temperatures are expected to be above 30 C every day until at least the middle of next week. Humidity will make those temperatures feel more like the high 30s and low 40s and there will be little relief from the heat overnight, as temperatures will remain in the low-to-mid 20s.
Environment Canada, which issued a heat warning on Thursday afternoon, has stated "this will likely be the most significant heat event of the season thus far."
The health unit's extended heat warning will begin Friday and will continue through to Tuesday when temps are expected to ease slightly.
During the hot and muggy weather, health officials are advising people to protect themselves against heat-related illness by taking the following steps:
• Drink plenty of water and natural juices throughout the day, even if you don’t feel very thirsty. Remember to take sips often and not to guzzle your drink. • Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages, coffee and cola. • When possible, avoid spending too much time outdoors. If you must be outside, seek shade as much as possible. Plan outdoor activities in the early morning or evening. • Wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors. • Keep window shades or drapes drawn and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home. • Avoid turning on electric lights in the home. • 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. • Use fans to draw cool air at night, but do not rely on a fan as a primary cooling device during extended periods of excessive heat. • Consult your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of any medications you are taking. • Reduce the use of personal vehicles, stop unnecessary idling; avoid using oil-based paints and glues, pesticides and gas-powered small engines.
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 city is opening cooling centres for those needing a place to go to beat the heat. A list of cooling centres can be found here.
