Ottawa's medical officer of health has issued a heat warning until further notice as the national capital region gets a late taste of summer, causing concerns for the health of the city's most vulnerable residents.
The city issued a heat warning late Monday afternoon, one day after issuing a heat alert. Heat warnings are automatically issued when Environment Canada forecasts a humidex of 40 or more for at least two days in a row.
The temperature in Ottawa was 31.2 degrees Celsius at 4 p.m. Monday, while the humidex made it feel more like 41. The forecasted high for Tuesday is 33 degrees with a humidex of 40.
"Heat is hardest on the elderly and chronically ill. If they have no protection from the heat, such as access to air conditioning and plenty of fluids, they can develop serious health effects and even die," Dr. Isra Levy said in a statement.
Extreme heat can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and in some cases even death. Those most at risk are infants, young children, seniors and the homeless, as well as people who take certain types of medications, such as anti-depressants.
Ottawa Public Health is encouraging residents to cool down by accessing city-run swimming pools and splash pads, as well as air conditioned public libraries, community centres, shopping malls or movie theatres. Residents are also asked to check on family and friends who may be vulnerable to the heat.
Residents are advised to:
- drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine and alcoholic beverages
- avoid strenuous physical activity outdoors
- avoid direct exposure to the sun and seek shade
- wear lightweight and loose clothing
- spend at least two hours each day in an air conditioned location
