Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for Carberry and the surrounding Municipality of North Cypress-Langford, with humidex values expected to reach 38 over the next couple of days. The warning, issued early Sunday morning, means residents should brace for sticky, uncomfortable conditions and take steps to avoid heat-related illness.
The humidex, which combines temperature and humidity to describe how hot it actually feels, will make it seem closer to 38 degrees even if the air temperature is lower. Environment Canada’s forecast for the week shows temperatures climbing into the low 30s by Saturday, so the muggy weather is likely to stick around.
This follows the earlier July heat wave that brought record temperatures to the region. On July 12, the community hit 34.7°C, breaking a record that had stood since 1969. Manitoba has been baking under an extended July heat wave, with several towns setting temperature records.
Heat warnings from Environment Canada come in three levels: yellow, orange, and red. A yellow warning, like the one now covering Carberry, signals moderate, short-term heat that can still be risky. For southern Manitoba, the trigger is a daytime high of 32°C or more and an overnight low above 16°C for at least two days in a row.
Officials are urging everyone to drink plenty of water, avoid being outside during the hottest afternoon hours, and check on neighbours who might be more vulnerable. Older adults, young children, people with ongoing health problems, and those without air conditioning are especially at risk. Never leave a person or pet inside a parked vehicle, even for a few minutes.
While temperatures have dropped to more seasonal levels early this week, a return to hotter conditions is in the forecast. The Manitoba Heat Alert and Response System helps communities coordinate cooling centres and health checks during events like this one. Environment Canada reminds everyone to watch for symptoms of heat stroke, such as confusion, hot dry skin, or fainting, and to call 911 right away if those signs appear.
