Collingwood is set to swelter under a prolonged heat wave starting Tuesday as temperatures climb well above seasonal norms, with Environment Canada issuing a high-impact orange heat warning for the region on Monday afternoon.
The heat will build through the week, peaking Wednesday and Thursday when daytime highs could reach between 34 and 36 degrees Celsius. That is nearly 10 degrees hotter than the typical late-June high of 25 degrees for this area. The warning, which comes with very high forecast confidence, stretches from Tuesday, June 30 through Friday, July 3 and possibly into Saturday.
Overnight lows are only expected to drop to 21 to 24 degrees, giving little relief after the sun goes down. Humidity will make it feel even stickier, with a humidex of 40 forecast for Tuesday. Environment Canada also warns that the hot, muggy air could push the Air Quality Health Index toward the high-risk level, adding to the strain on people with breathing problems.
The heat carries extra risk in Collingwood because about 30 percent of its roughly 26,500 permanent residents are 65 or older, a demographic that faces greater danger from extreme temperatures. According to Health Canada, older adults, young children, and those with chronic health conditions are among the most vulnerable. Residents are urged to check on neighbours and relatives who live alone.
The town has opened several cooling centres where people can escape the heat. These include the Collingwood Public Library at 55 Ste. Marie Street, the Transit Terminal at Second and Pine Street, the Collingwood Museum, and the County of Simcoe Social and Community Services office at 485 Second Street. The library is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Health authorities recommend staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, and knowing the signs of heat stroke, which include red and hot skin, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. Anyone needing help finding community services can call 211 at any time.
