Heat warnings blanket northern Ontario as temps soar

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Northern Ontario is bracing for its first major heat event of the season, with Environment Canada issuing heat warnings and special weather statements for multiple regions. Dangerously high temperatures and humidity are expected to persist through Monday night, posing significant health risks.

Heat warning in effect

Environment Canada issued a heat warning early Sunday morning for the following areas: Greater Sudbury and vicinity, Manitoulin Island, North Bay, Parry Sound and Sault Ste. Marie along with the communities of Batchawana Bay, Bracebridge, Chapleau, Elliot Lake, Espanola, Foleyet, French River, Gogama, Gravenhurst, Killarney, Killbear Park, Mattawa, Missinaibi Lake, Montreal River Harbour, Powassan, Ranger Lake, Rosseau, Searchmont, St. Joseph Island, Temagami, Temiskaming Shores, and West Nipissing.

“The first significant heat event of the season with dangerously hot and humid conditions will begin this afternoon,” the warning stated.

Forecasters predict daytime highs of 29 to 33 degrees Celsius, with humidex values nearing 40. Overnight lows of 18 to 21 degrees Celsius will offer little relief. A cold front is expected to push through Monday night, though uncertainty remains about its reach. If the front stalls, the heat could extend into Tuesday for the Sudbury, North Bay, Espanola, Killarney and West Nipissing regions.

Special weather statement for other northeastern communities

A separate special weather statement was issued Sunday afternoon for Timmins along with the communities of Cochrane, Hearst, Iroquois Falls, Kapuskasing and Smooth Rock Falls.

“The first one-day heat event of the season is expected,” Environment Canada said.

Daytime highs of 28 to 31 degrees Celsius, combined with humidex values of 36 to 41, will create hazardous conditions. The heat is expected to ease Monday night as a cold front moves in.

“Everyone is at risk from heat, especially older adults, infants and young children, and people with chronic illnesses,” the statement warned.

Health risks and public safety measures

Public Health Sudbury & Districts echoed concerns, urging residents to take precautions.

“Although some individuals are at higher risk, anyone can suffer from heat-related illnesses,” said Cindy Rocca, a manager with the health unit’s Health Protection Division in a warning shared with CTV News on Sunday.

“Everyone should take precautions.”

Heat-related illnesses include heat stroke, exhaustion, fainting, and dehydration. Those most vulnerable include older adults, infants, people with chronic illnesses, outdoor workers, and those without adequate cooling.

Environment Canada and public health officials recommend:

• Drinking plenty of water before feeling thirsty.
• Wearing lightweight, light-coloured clothing and wide-brimmed hats.
• Rescheduling outdoor activities for cooler parts of the day.
• Never leaving people or pets in parked vehicles.
• Checking on vulnerable individuals frequently.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention. Symptoms include confusion, dizziness, nausea, and hot, red skin. If suspected, call 911 and cool the person rapidly with water or ice packs.

Longer-term preparedness

With climate change increasing the frequency of extreme heat, Environment Canada advises preparing homes by using fans, closing blinds during peak sun, and identifying cool public spaces like libraries or malls.

Residents are urged to monitor updates and report severe weather to [e-mail] or via #ONStorm on social media.