Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for St. Thomas and Elgin county as hot and humid conditions are expected Wednesday through Friday.
Temperatures Wednesday are expected to reach 30 degrees Celsius. Thursday, while slightly cooler, will be very humid with humidex values in the upper thirties.
Friday is expected to be extremely hot with humidex values reaching 40 for many areas. Minimum temperatures in the low twenties will provide little relief from the heat. Cooler temperatures are expected Saturday.
Areas near the lakes can expect to remain cooler than areas inland.
Hot and humid air can also bring deteriorating air quality and can result in the Air Quality Health Index approaching the high risk category.
Anyone who experiences physical distress because of extreme temperatures should immediately seek medical attention, either by calling 911 or going to the emergency department.
What you should do:
• During extreme temperature conditions, stay indoors in an air-conditioned building if possible.
• Limit time in the sun when the UV Index is most intense, between 11 AM – 4 PM.
• Seek shade when outdoors, especially during mid-day.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and decrease intake of caffeinated/alcoholic beverages.
• Take cool showers or baths.
• Apply Sunscreen with SPF 30 (or higher), 20-30 minutes before going outside to ensure absorption
and re-apply every 2-3 hours.
• Check regularly on children, the elderly, persons with disabilities and individuals with chronic
illnesses
• Never leave young children, the elderly or pets in a closed parked vehicle for any period.
You can find a local public Cooling Centre at http://www.swpublichealth.ca/extreme-heat
Written by: Ian McCallum
