Ottawa residents will begin September with a heat warning that won't be lifted until the weather starts to cool later this week.
Ottawa's medical officer of health issued the heat warning Monday until further notice.
The temperature in Ottawa was 30.9 degrees Celsius at 5 p.m. Tuesday, with a humidex that made it feel more like 41. The forecasted high for Wednesday is 32 degrees Celsius, with showers expected on Thursday.
"Most of North America, certainly the eastern third of it, is suffering from this heat," said CTV Ottawa weather specialist J.J. Clarke.
He said high temperatures this late in the summer are unusual for the Ottawa area and should end by Thursday.
A smog advisory is also in effect for Kingston, Belleville and the Quinte region.
Health risks
Ottawa's medical officer of health says many people don't realize the dangers associated with the heat, and they need to make sure they stay hydrated and cool.
"We have to respect the heat, we know it can be dangerous," said Dr. Isra Levy.
"Sometimes people don't realize they're becoming dehydrated and they don't keep themselves hydrated and they become ill fairly suddenly."
Residents most at risk from extreme heat are infants, young children, seniors and the homeless, as well as people who take certain types of medications, such as anti-depressants.
Residents are advised to stay cool by:
- drinking plenty of water and avoiding caffeine and alcoholic beverages
- avoiding strenuous physical activity outdoors
- avoiding direct exposure to the sun and seeking shade
- wearing lightweight and loose clothing
- spending at least two hours each day in an air conditioned location
Despite the recent blast of heat, temperatures are expected to return to cooler levels this weekend.
Environment Canada will release its fall forecast on Wednesday. By all indications, the weather will likely be warmer than normal.
With a report from CTV Ottawa's Karen Soloman
