Well above normal temperatures continue into weekend

The tranquility of the beach. Cynara Lewis photo

Thursday’s extreme heat prompted the municipality to invite residents and visitors to Prince Edward County Cooling Centre locations. Bottled water was made available at both locations and the public was welcome to take advantage of the air conditioning.
“The County of Prince Edward has opened several cooling centres
throughout the municipality today for those residents who are seeking relief from the extreme heat and humid weather conditions that have gripped the area,” says Mayor Peter Mertens.
High temperatures combined with high humidity can be dangerous for vulnerable individuals, including the very young, the elderly, those with chronic illnesses or those on medications that make them more sensitive to heat.

The following locations will be open:
Wellington & District Community Centre – 11 am to 8 pm
111 Belleville Street, Wellington
Prince Edward Community Centre – 11 am to 8 pm
375 Main Street, Picton
Bloomfield Library – 11 am to 8 pm
300 Main Street, Bloomfield
Consecon Library – noon to 8 pm
211 County Road 29, Consecon
Ameliasburg Library – noon to 8 pm
809 Whitney Road, Ameliasburg
Bottled water will be available at the community centres. Potable water is available at library sites.

Environment Canada warns extreme temperatures and humidex values  will quickly cause the mercury to soar well into the middle and upper 30s this afternoon.
“Combining the record-setting temperatures with the high humidity in this sultry tropical air mass will result in oppressive humidex values in the low to mid 40s across all of Southern Ontario by this afternoon.
“There will be some local relief from the high humidex values immediately along the shorelines of the Great Lakes and large inland lakes. Current indications suggest that a weak front will slip through tonight.
“However, in the wake of the front it will continue to be hot on Friday with temperatures in the low to mid 30s but somewhat less humid.
“Well above normal temperatures will continue into the weekend for most of Southern Ontario with temperatures reaching the low 30s again on Saturday.
Keep up-to-date with The Weather Network: http://www.theweathernetwork.com/index.php?product=weather&placecode=caon0540&wbRef=countylive.ca&link=cityPage&switchto=c&switchto=c&ref=wxbtn234x60_image_city

The Health Unit of Hastings and Prince Counties recommends the following:
*Drink lots of water and natural fruit juices even if you don’t feel
very thirsty.
*Avoid alcoholic beverages, coffee and cola.
*Avoid going out in the blazing sun or heat when possible. If you
must go outside, stay in the shade as much as possible.
*Plan to go out early in the morning or in the evening when it is
cooler and smog levels may not be as high.
*Wear a hat.
*Go to air-conditioned or cool places such as shopping malls,
libraries, community centres or a friend’s air-conditioned home.
*If you don’t have air conditioning, keep shades or drapes drawn and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home, but keep windows slightly open.
*Wear loose-fitting, light clothing.
*Keep lights off or turned down low.
*Take a cool bath or shower periodically or cool down with cool, wet towels.
*Avoid heavy meals and using your oven.
*Avoid intense or moderately intense physical activity.
*Never leave a child or a pet in a parked car or allow them to sleep
in direct sunlight.
*Fans alone may not provide enough cooling when the temperature is high.
*Consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding the side effects of your
medications.
These are the warning signs if a person is over-heated:
Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
Weakness, dizziness or fainting
More tiredness than usual
Headache
Confusion
Nausea
If you, or someone you encounter, is suffering from these symptoms
seek medical attention immediately.