Heat, humidity and sweltering temperature blanket the Maritimes

Jean Heckman, 93, said she will usually never miss a chance to work on her garden in Dartmouth, N.S. but the hot temperatures have left her cautious. (CTV News)

Jean Heckman said she usually will never miss a chance to work on her garden in her Dartmouth, N.S. neighbourhood. Heckman is 93-years-old, but she said it’s a young 93.

“And a fit 93,” she added.

However, Heckman said when the weather gets hot and humid like it has this week, she knows it’s not safe to be outside for too long.

“I’m not doing the heavy work, like shovelling the mulch or something like that,” she said.

According to CTV Atlantic Chief Meteorologist Kalin Mitchell, these last few days have seen record setting high temperatures in all three Maritime provinces.

“Most of the highs hit the low 30s C and then we talk about the humidex which is the measure of moisture in the air combined with those temperatures, it is going to be feeling like the low 40s C,” said Mitchell.

Last year, Annapolis County, N.S. dealt with extended drought conditions and devastating wildfires.

After a rainy June, Deputy Warden Dustin Enslow is now watching these increasingly dry conditions closely

“I wouldn’t be surprised if by tomorrow, some areas of the county will have no burning,” he said.

The hot weather is a shock to the system especially in a part of the country known for its cool ocean breezes. However, many people showcased their durability, with no shortage of outdoor recreational and sporting activities in the Halifax area.

There’s also outside work that needs to get done, even in the heat.

“There is this quote that I always bring up,” said Sebastian Nickerson, a professional landscaper. “If you feel like you are done, you always have 40 per cent more in you.”

Nickerson has grinded through his work duties, staying cool when he can.

“You need the mental mindset to work through it,” he said. “And then you get back into the truck as soon as possible with the air conditioning and get your water.”

People who live in the three Maritime provinces will get some relief – Mitchell said a cooler system will enter the region over the weekend.