Antigonish could see some stormy weather this afternoon before clearer conditions arrive for the rest of the week. Environment Canada’s forecast for Monday, June 29 calls for a 60 percent chance of showers today with a risk of a thundershower, with temperatures expected to reach 21°C and a Humidex value of 23. The unsettled weather is typical for late June in the region.
Fog patches that developed overnight are expected to clear by late morning, giving way to partly cloudy skies for much of the day. However, the thunderstorm risk this afternoon means residents should plan indoor activities if possible. Lightning safety is a real concern, as lightning kills two to three Canadians and injures close to 180 every year. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck.
The good news is that Tuesday offers a break from the damp weather. Skies are forecast to clear, bringing a mix of sun and cloud and a high of 25°C. The Humidex will reach 29, making it feel quite muggy. With a high UV index of 7, anyone heading outdoors should take precautions. Health officials recommend wearing a hat and tightly woven clothes, using sunscreen on exposed skin, and seeking shade between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. when the sun is strongest.
Overnight tonight, the risk of showers drops to 30 percent, with fog patches expected to develop again. The low will be around 13°C. By Tuesday, a mix of sun and cloud returns with a 30 percent chance of showers early in the morning and late in the afternoon, a risk of a thundershower late in the afternoon, and a high of 25°C with a Humidex of 29. Environment Canada updates its Antigonish forecast regularly as conditions change.
While the Humidex values this week remain well below dangerous levels, heat safety guidance reminds us that readings above 40 can pose health risks. For now, the bigger concern is lightning. More people are struck before and after a thunderstorm than during one, so it’s wise to stay alert even as skies brighten later today.
