Heatwave on the way for official start of summer, and experts say the heat is here to stay

The official start of summer will bring a a brief but potent heat wave.

The official start of summer will bring a brief but potent heat wave.

Environment Canada forecasts daytime highs reaching low to mid 30sC starting Saturday, with overnight lows hovering around 21C, conditions that meet provincial criteria for a heat warning.

“It’s going to be intensely warm,” said David Phillips, Environment Canada’s senior climatologist. “This is the first heat wave of the year.”

A heat warning is issued when two or more consecutive days are anticipated to have daytime highs of at least 31C and overnight lows of 20C or higher, or humidex values hitting at least 40 for two days in a row.

The intense heat will stick around through to Tuesday, with experts advising folks to stay hydrated and watch for signs of heat-related illness.

Environment Canada is predicting the summer weather is likely here for the long haul.

“It looks like the lazy, hazy summer days are upon us,” Phillips added. “This looks like another warm summer. It shouldn’t surprise us, globally we saw the warmest summer on record was two years ago, last year was the second warmest in Canada. The last time we had a cool summer was 33 years ago.”

The cool down is expected to arrive by Wednesday when highs dip to the mid 20s and the humidity lessens.

How to Handle the Heat

• Stay cool: Use fans, air‐conditioning or visit public cooling centres.
• Hydrate: Drink often, even before you’re thirsty, and avoid too much salty, sugary, or alcoholic drinks.
• Watch for heat illness: Heat exhaustion or heat stroke symptoms include dizziness, nausea, headache or confusion—get to cool shade and seek medical help if needed.
• Plan smart: Schedule outdoor work or activities early in the morning or after sundown.
• Check on others: Children, seniors, and those on medications are especially at risk—make sure they’re safe and comfortable.

With the heat comes the potential for thunderstorms.