Keep the water close — heat warning issued for Ottawa and most of Ontario

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It’s once again time to keep water bottles full and to stay hydrated.

Environment Canada issued a heat warning for the national capital area and most of Ontario on Wednesday afternoon.

The weather alert stated the “heat event” was expected to begin Thursday and to continue until at least Friday, possibly lasting into the weekend. A hot, humid airmass is expected to bring daytime highs of 30 C to 32 C, with humidex values of close to 40. There won’t be much of a break from the oppressive conditions overnight, either, with low temperatures in the range of 19 C to 21 C.

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Ottawa’s forecast called for highs of 31 C on Thursday and Friday, with a 30 per cent chance of showers the first day and a mix of sun and cloud on the second. The daytime high was to dip to 28 C on Saturday and to 25 C on Sunday.

A person carries an umbrella for shade as they walk on Parliament Hill on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, as temperatures hit 32 C.
A person carries an umbrella for shade as they walk on Parliament Hill on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, as temperatures hit 32 C. Photo by Sean Kilpatrick /The Canadian Press

As always, Environment Canada listed the risks involved during heat events and how to minimize the effects of the extreme weather.

“Extreme heat can affect everyone’s health,” the alert stated. “The health risks are greater for older adults, infants and young children, pregnant people, people with physical and/or mental illnesses, and people with disabilities or mobility issues.

“Drink plenty of water regularly, even before you feel thirsty, to decrease your risk of dehydration. Thirst is not a good indicator of dehydration.

“Never leave people, particularly children, or pets inside a parked vehicle.”

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