Heat Warning notification for Hamilton effective July 31, 2024

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

A heat event is expected to begin today and continue through Thursday. Maximum daytime temperatures of 30 to 32 degrees Celsius are expected, with humidex values near 40. Overnight minimum temperatures will be 20 to 22 degrees Celsius.

A cooler airmass may arrive by Thursday night.

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 regularly scheduled Open 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 hamilton.ca/heat

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 if 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 designated cool place listed on hamilton.ca/heat
• 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.
• Landlords can help to decrease the risk of heat-related illness for tenants.Connect with tenants to determine if units have adequate cooling. If not, provide tenants with onsite access to a cool space.

Additional Resources

• Information about the Heat Alert and Response System visit hamilton.ca/heat.
• For tips on coping with the heat and places to cool off visit hamilton.ca/heat or call 905-546-CITY (2489).
• Information on how heat affects human health is available on the Health Canada website.