The heat is on… with a chance of showers

A prolonged period of very hot conditions is forecast by Environment Canada for Prince Edward County with an orange level warning.

Extreme heat is expected to last until Friday, July 3, and possibly into Saturday, July 4, with forecasted temperatures of 31 to 35 degrees C with a humidex of 40 or more. (Lows 21 to 25 degrees C).

For Canada Day, a mix of sun and cloud is forecast with a 40 per cent chance of showers late in the afternoon along with a risk of a thunderstorm. Wind gusting to 40 near noon. High 32. Humidex 42. Overnight is expected to be clear. Low 22.

For Thursday to Saturday, a mix of sun and cloud is forecast with highs of 30 to 33, and a 30 per cent chance of showers.

Becoming overheated can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and, in some cases, death. Even short periods of exposure to high temperatures can cause health problems. If you have the following symptoms after exposure to extreme heat, seek medical attention immediately:
Nausea, dizziness, blurred vision
Difficulty or rapid breathing
Severe headache or confusion
Convulsion
Fever

Who is at risk?
During heat events, everyone is at risk; however, health risks are greatest for:
infants and young children
older adults
people who are pregnant
people with chronic medical conditions or mental illnesses
people who are underhoused or experiencing homelessness
people with limited physical mobility
people who work outdoors

During a heat event:
Check on family and friends to make sure they are OK.
Never leave children, adults or pets in parked cars or sleeping outside in direct sunlight.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding the side effects of your medications.
Eat foods that have high water content such as watermelon, grapes and oranges.
Limit caffeinated beverages such as coffee and cola.
Take a cool bath or shower periodically, or cool down with cool, wet towels.
Whenever possible, go to an air-conditioned room or building.
Wear loose-fitting, light clothing and a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors.
Keep window shades or drapes drawn and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home.
Use fans to draw cool air at night, but do not rely on a fan as a main cooling device during long periods of high heat and humidity.