Saskatoon activates extreme heat response amid heat warning

Environment Canada is warning of several days of hot, humid weather across much of the province. Stacey Hein reports.

The City of Saskatoon has activated its extreme heat response as Environment and Climate Change Canada warns of several days of hot, humid weather across much of Saskatchewan.

Daytime highs in the Saskatoon area are forecast to reach the mid-30s this weekend, with humidex values climbing into the low 40s.

“Where you are in the province, it could vary slightly in terms of the amount of heat you’re going to see and the amount of humidity you’re going to see. But, in general, it’s going to be hot and pretty moist across much of the province at this point in time,” said Brian Proctor, a meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Pamela Goulden-McLeod, Saskatoon’s director of emergency management, said the city has temporarily extended the hours of city spray pads from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and that cooling locations are available across the city.

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Goulden-McLeod also urged people to stay out of the South Saskatchewan River, saying conditions remain dangerous.

“We’re asking people to stay off the river, of course, because there’s lots of places you can cool down in Saskatoon,” she said.

She said people living in homes without air conditioning, older adults and those with certain health conditions are among the most vulnerable during periods of extreme heat.

“We’re really asking the residents of Saskatoon, just reach out to your neighbours, to your family, to your friends, and check how they’re doing if they live in that kind of a situation,” she said.

A slight cool-down is expected early next week, but temperatures are forecast to remain in the mid- to high-20s for several days.