Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for Aurora and the Northern York Region as a long stretch of hot weather settles in, starting Tuesday and lasting through Friday and possibly into Saturday.
The warning came into effect Monday, June 29, and forecasts call for daytime highs climbing to 34 degrees Celsius by Wednesday and Thursday, with overnight lows staying around 21 to 24 degrees, offering little relief from the heat.
This is the first heat event of the season for many communities. Normal highs for this time of year are around 25 degrees, making this week’s temperatures roughly 10 degrees above average.
The hot and humid air is also expected to lower air quality, with the Air Quality Health Index approaching the high-risk category. York Region Public Health runs an Extreme Heat Program that alerts residents and community partners when weather could harm people’s health.
Health officials are asking everyone to check on older neighbours, people living alone, and others who may be more at risk. Those most vulnerable include seniors, infants, people with chronic health conditions, outdoor workers, and anyone without access to a cool space.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Signs include red, hot, dry skin with no sweating, confusion, and loss of consciousness. If you see these signs, call 911 right away.
Environment Canada advises drinking plenty of water, staying in the shade or air-conditioned spaces, and never leaving people or pets inside a parked vehicle.
