Greater Sudbury under heat alert as humidex climbs into the mid-40s

Article content Greater Sudbury is under a Heat Alert as a prolonged stretch of extreme temperatures and high humidity continues across the region. Under the City of Greater Sudbury’s Hot Weather Response Plan, a Heat Alert is issued when humidex values...

Article content Greater Sudbury is under a Heat Alert as a prolonged stretch of extreme temperatures and high humidity continues across the region. Under the City of Greater Sudbury’s Hot Weather Response Plan, a Heat Alert is issued when humidex values are expected to reach 40 or higher for at least two consecutive days. Recommended Videos Environment Canada says the current heat event will bring daytime highs of 30 degrees C to 37 degrees C, overnight lows of 20 to 25, and humidex values ranging from 38 to 45.

Tuesday is expected to be the peak of the heat wave. Wednesday will be a bit cooler with a high of 28 expected. “Frequently check on your friends, neighbours and relatives, especially if they are at higher risk of heat-related illness, to ensure that they are staying cool and hydrated,” Burgess Hawkins, manager of Public Health Sudbury & Districts’ Health Protection Division, said in a release.

Health risks increase Public Health warns that extended exposure to extreme heat can lead to dehydration and serious health issues, including heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat fainting, heat edema, heat rash and muscle cramps. In severe cases, heat-related illness can be fatal. Those most vulnerable include older adults, infants and young children, pregnant people, individuals with chronic medical conditions, people experiencing homelessness, those who use alcohol or other drugs, and anyone working or exercising outdoors.

Common symptoms of heat-related illness include: - Dizziness or fainting - Nausea or vomiting - Headache - Rapid breathing or increased heart rate - Extreme thirst - Confusion - Reduced urination or dark yellow urine Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention. Residents can also contact Health811 online or by calling 811 for free health advice. In an emergency, call 911.

City expands cooling measures In response to Environment Canada’s extended heat warning, the City of Greater Sudbury has expanded access to cooling facilities and recreational amenities. From Tuesday through Wednesday: - Lifeguard supervision at seven municipal beaches has been extended from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. (regular hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.). - Beach locations: Bell Park Main Beach on Ramsey Lake in Sudbury.

A floating wheelchair may be reserved (free) at this location by calling 705-674-9116. Capreol Public Beach on Marshy Lake in Capreol. Centennial Park Beach on Vermillion River in Whitefish.

Kalmo Beach on Whitson Lake in Val Caron. Moonlight Beach on Ramsey Lake in Sudbury. Nepahwin Beach on Nepahwin Lake in Sudbury.

Whitewater Lake Park on Whitewater Lake in Azilda. - Centennial Park Beach will begin extended hours on Wednesday. - All 17 splash pads are open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. - Municipal pools remain open during regular operating hours.

To check for existing public swim times, visit greatersudbury.ca/pools. - Libraries and citizen service centres are available as cooling centres during regular business hours. For library hours and locations, visit www.sudburylibraries.ca/hours-locations.

- The Greater Sudbury Public Library’s Main Branch will extend operating hours from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. - McClelland Community Centre and Arena in Copper Cliff and Cambrian Arena in Sudbury will serve as cooling centres from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. - The Go Give Project drop-in centre at Energy Court is also open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., offering an air-conditioned space for people experiencing homelessness. - All GOVA and GOVA Plus buses are equipped with air conditioning. A water fountain with a bottle refilling station is available at the GOVA Transit terminal downtown.

Stay cool and hydrated Public health officials recommend drinking plenty of water before feeling thirsty, limiting outdoor activity during peak heat, seeking shade whenever possible and wearing loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing. Residents looking to escape the heat are encouraged to spend time in air-conditioned public buildings, libraries, shopping centres, community centres, or at local beaches and pools. People with unique circumstances or additional support needs can call 311 for assistance.

Officials also note that hot, humid conditions may contribute to worsening air quality, with the Air Quality Health Index approaching high-risk levels in some areas.