Hot and humid week ahead for southwestern Ontario

The forecast this week? Hot, hot, hot! CTV's Ashley Bacon has the details.

It finally feels like summer in southwestern Ontario.

Environment Canada is warning of a prolonged period of hot weather.

Monday’s forecast shows a high of 29 degrees Celsius but with the humidity it will feel closer to 34. The temperature is expected to drop to 19 degrees Celsius overnight, and a thunderstorm is possible.

The agency also issued an alert for parts of the province, including London, Windsor, Sarnia, Grand Bend, Goderich, Wingham and Owen Sound. The temperature is expected to climb to 30 degrees Celsius, or even as high as 36 degrees Celsius, with a humidex of 37 to 45.

“Heat and humidity will increase further beginning Tuesday with maximum temperatures of 31 to 36 degrees Celsius and humidex values of 40 to 45,” the alert said. “Minimum temperatures of 21 to 25 degrees Celsius will provide little relief from the heat.”

In Waterloo Region, Environment Canada is predicting a high of 31 degrees Celsius on Tuesday but feeling closer to 41. The forecast also shows a 40 per cent chance of rain. The overnight low is expected to drop to 22 degrees Celsius.

Canada Day will also be a scorcher. The forecast shows a high of 33 with a 30 per cent chance of rain, falling to 23 overnight.

On Thursday, it will climb to 34 degrees Celsius. That’s without the humidex. Friday will be a repeat of Thursday, with a mix of sun and cloud and a high of 33 degrees Celsius. The forecast also shows a 30 per cent chance of rain on both days.

The forecast for next week is a little more uncertain. As of Monday morning, Environment Canada showed a high of 31 degrees Celsius on Saturday and 28 degrees Celsius on Sunday.

Signs of heat illness

Heat illness is a serious concern when the mercury rises, especially in older adults, infants, young children, pregnant people, those with physical or mental illnesses, mobility issues, people who work outside and the homeless community.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or fainting
• Extreme thirst
• Dark urine and decreased urination
• Intense fatigue
• Confusion or lack of coordination
• Skin rash
• Muscle cramps
• Heavy sweating
• Rapid breathing and heartbeat

Heat stroke, by comparison, is considered a medical emergency.

Symptoms include:

• High body temperature
• Very hot, red skin
• Confusion or change in consciousness
• Dizziness or fainting
• No sweating

If someone is experiencing heat stroke, experts advise moving them to a cool place, giving them water and placing ice packs on their body. Call 911 immediately.

Beating the heat

The key to avoiding heat illness is to plan ahead.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Know the weather forecast before going outside
• Modify your plans according to the weather
• Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, even before you feel thirsty
• Avoid drinks that are high in sugar, caffeine or alcohol
• Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric
• Seek shade
• Avoid sun exposure if you can
• Take breaks as needed
• Avoid using your oven
• Take a cool shower or bath
• Take a break by spending a few hours in a cool place
• Close blinds and shades,
• Turn on air conditioning or use a fan

Cooling centres

The best way to get relief from the heat and humidity is to seek out a designated cooling centre.

The Region of Waterloo has locations listed on their website. They include libraries, community centres, museums and regional offices.

The map also includes a list of public swimming pools and splash pads.

Protecting your pets

Never leave pets inside a hot vehicle.

Dogs can also experience heatstroke, and it could lead to organ failure or even death.

Signs of an overheated pet include:

• Excessive panting
• Drooling
• Vomiting
• Collapsing
• Lethargy
• Tongue can appear red or hang out of their mouth

If your pet is suffering from the heat, it’s a good idea to gradually cool them down. Experts suggest using a cool blanket or towel that is wet. Avoid using ice.

Owners should keep pets at home when the temperature climbs but if they need to go outside, keep them off the pavement as much as possible, only go for a short walk, or take them out in the morning or evening when it’s cooler.

Anyone concerned about the well-being of an animal is advised to call 911.