Heat warning issued for the Greater Sudbury area

The yellow-level warning represents a moderate impact and a high forecast confidence

Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for the Greater Sudbury, Espanola/Killarney and Manitoulin Island areas. The yellow-level warning carries a moderate impact level and high forecast confidence and is slated to begin Monday and end either Wednesday or Thursday evening. Maximum temperatures of 30-36 C are forecast alongside minimum temperatures of 20-23 C and humidex values of 38 to 45.

“Tuesday will mark the peak of this heat event,” Environment Canada said, cautioning that hot and humid air can also bring deteriorating air quality and can result in spikes to the Air Quality Index, approaching the high-risk category. “Take action to protect yourself and others,” Environment Canada said in a media release. “Extreme heat can affect everyone’s health.

Determine if you or others around you are at greater risk of heat illness. Check on older adults, those living alone and other at-risk people in-person or on the phone multiple times a day.” Signs of heat exhaustion may include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine and intense fatigue, which Environment Canada said should prompt people to stop their activity and drink water.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency, and people are urged to phone 911 if someone is showing signs, which can include red and hot skin, dizziness, nausea, confusion and change in consciousness. While waiting for medical attention, they urge people to try to cool the person by moving them to a cool place, removing extra clothing, applying cold water or ice packs around the body. Other advice includes: - Drink water often and before you feel thirsty to replace fluids.

- Close blinds or shades and open windows if outside is cooler than inside. - Turn on air conditioning, use a fan, or move to a cooler area of your living space. If your living space is hot, move to a cool public space such as a cooling centre, community centre, library or shaded park.

- Follow the advice of your region’s public health authority. - Plan and schedule outdoor activities during the coolest parts of the day. - Limit direct exposure to the sun and heat.

Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat. - Never leave people, especially children, or pets inside a parked vehicle. Check the vehicle before locking to make sure no one is left behind.

This latest heat warning follows one that Environment and Climate Change Canada issued on Saturday for north of Sudbury.