Heat Warning notification for the City of Hamilton - September 2

HAMILTON, ON – The Medical Officer of Health for the City of Hamilton has initiated a Heat Warning beginning on September 2, 2018. Heat Warnings stay in effect until they are cancelled or escalated to an Extended Heat Warning.

Humidex values reaching 40 are expected. More hot and humid weather for southwestern Ontario Monday through Wednesday.

A hot and humid airmass will affect the regions for the first part of the week.  Maximum daytime temperatures of 31 degrees are generally expected Monday through Wednesday with humidex values near 40.  Overnight minimum temperatures will likely remain near 21 degrees, providing little relief from the heat.

Scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible each day which could prevent maximum daytime highs reaching 31 every day in every area.  However, maximum daily humidex values are still expected to be near 40 degrees.

A cold front is expected to move through Wednesday night  bringing an end to the hot and humid weather.

The City of Hamilton and participating community agencies are responding to the heat by offering “cool places” to go during all stages of a heat event. These locations can be identified by a “Cool Down Here” sign at the entrance.

As part of the heat response plan all public, family, adult and seniors swims at all City of Hamilton indoor and outdoor pools will be free of charge. There are many spray pads, additional cool places and outdoor pools across Hamilton. For more information visit www.hamilton.ca/heat.

The Salvation Army has launched its mobile water distribution response and is distributing water to those in need of hydration.

Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale and clammy skin, weak pulse, fainting and vomiting. If experiencing symptoms, seek help right away – call 9-1-1 of needed.

Reduce your risk of heat-related illness by following these precautions

• Drink plenty of water. Avoid drinking alcoholic and caffeinated beverages on hot days.
• Go to an air-conditioned place. Visit a cool place such as a mall, public recreation centres, public libraries, and other City run air-conditioned facilities, etc.
• Dress to protect from the heat. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light coloured clothing. Wear a hat or take an umbrella to keep your head cool and don’t forget sunscreen.
• Take it easy. Limit physical activities (walking, running, gardening, etc.) during the day. If rescheduling activities to dawn or dusk when it may be cooler, protect yourself with insect repellant as mosquitoes are more active at such times. Check labels to apply
• Cool off. Take a cool bath or shower.
• Keep your living space cool. Close your blinds or curtains. Open windows to let air circulate when using a fan.
• Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles. Temperatures in a car can become life threatening within minutes.
• Check on your neighbours and family.

Additional resources

• For more information about the Heat Alert and Response System, visit www.hamilton.ca/heat.
• For tips on coping with the heat and places to cool off visit www.hamilton.ca/heat or call 905-546-2489.
• For City of Hamilton Indoor and Outdoor Pool locations and schedules, visit www.hamilton.ca/recreation.
• Information on how heat affects human health is available on the Health Canada website.