Heat warning issued for London, Ont. area

Yellow warning for heat issued for southwestern Ontario. (Environment Canada)

Environment Canada has issued a yellow heat warning for the London, Ont., area.

The season’s first heat event is set to begin Monday afternoon and is expected to persist through Tuesday. Daytime high temperatures will approach 30 Celsius, with humidex values reaching around 36C. Overnight lows will range from 18 to 20 degrees Celsius.

Extreme heat poses a risk to everyone’s health, so the forecaster says it’s crucial to take action to protect yourself and others. Determine if you or those around you are at a greater risk of heat illness.

It is especially important to check on older adults, individuals living alone, and other at-risk people multiple times a day, either in person or by phone.

Signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke

Be vigilant for early signs of heat exhaustion in yourself and others, which can include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine, and intense fatigue.

If these symptoms appear, stop your activity and drink water. Heat stroke is a medical emergency.

If you or someone around you exhibits signs such as red and hot skin, dizziness, nausea, confusion, or a change in consciousness, call 911 or your emergency health provider immediately.

While waiting for medical assistance, move the affected person to a cool place, remove excess clothing, and apply cold water or ice packs to their body.

To stay safe, drink water frequently and before you feel thirsty to maintain hydration. Indoors, close blinds or shades and open windows if the outside temperature is cooler than inside. Utilize air conditioning, fans, or relocate to a cooler part of your home.

If your living space becomes too hot, seek refuge in a cool public space like a cooling centre, community centre, library, or shaded park. Follow the guidance provided by your region’s public health authority.

For outdoor activities, plan them during the coolest parts of the day, limit direct sun and heat exposure, and wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing along with a wide-brimmed hat.

Never leave people, particularly children, or pets unattended inside a parked vehicle, as temperatures can rise rapidly. Always check the vehicle thoroughly before locking it to ensure no one has been left behind.

More information is available online: How to protect yourself from the health effects of extreme heatHealth risks and who is at risk of extreme heat events.