A prolonged heat event continues for the National Capital Region, with a fourth straight day of dangerously hot and humid conditions expected.
A heat warning remains in effect from Environment Canada, as Ottawa’s forecast high for Thursday is 32 C, with a humidex of 41.
The weather agency says the hot, humid air can bring deteriorating air quality and can result in the Air Quality Health Index approaching the high-risk category.
You’re advised to drink plenty of water regularly, even before you feel thirsty to decrease your risk of dehydration.
Watch for the effects of heat illness: swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of some health conditions, and in the case of heat stroke, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Symptoms of heat stroke include a high body temperature, confusion, lack of sweat and loss of consciousness.
While waiting for help, move the person to a cool place, apply cold water to large areas of the skin and fan the person as much as possible.
Also, never leave people, particularly children, or pets inside a parked vehicle.
The health risks from extreme heat 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.
For anyone in need of relief, it is coming.
Environment Canada says temperatures Friday should be several degrees cooler.
Ottawa’s forecast:
- Today (Thursday) A mix of sun and cloud. Chance of showers or thunderstorms. High 32. Humidex 41.
- Tonight: Partly cloudy. Chance of showers this evening with risk of a thunderstorm. Low 19.
- Friday: A mix of sun and cloud. Chance of showers in the afternoon. High 27. Humidex 31.
- Friday night: Increasing cloudiness. Low 17.
- Saturday: Cloudy with a chance of showers. High 25.
- Saturday night: Cloudy with a chance of showers. Low 17.
- Sunday: Cloudy with a chance of showers. High 25.
- Sunday night: Cloudy with a chance of showers. Low 17.
- Monday: Cloudy with a chance of showers. High 23.
- Monday night: Cloudy periods. Low 14.