Get ready to sweat. As a heat dome moves across eastern North America this week, Environment Canada is forecasting hot and humid conditions in Hamilton.
On Monday, the federal agency forecasts a high of 32 C in the city, feeling closer to 40 C. As of publication, temperatures in that range and hotter are forecast through to at least Saturday June 22.
Overall, temperatures in Hamilton over the coming days will be about 8 C hotter than average, when compared to data from 1981 to 2010, according to CBC’s climate dashboard.
Going forward, Environment Canada told CBC News it will be able to link extreme heat to climate change within a week, estimating the likelihood of climate change causing a weather event, and how much it made it worse.
Public health has yet to issue a heat warning
CBC Hamilton asked the city’s public health department if Hamilton will issue a heat warning this week but did not receive a response before publication. There is currently no warning on the city’s website.
Hamilton’s criteria for a heat warning is two or more days with forecasted highs greater than or equal to 31 C, and nighttime lows of 20 C or more, or two days with a humidex of 40 C or greater.
During public heat warnings, some city spaces such as libraries and community centres open as spaces for people to cool off, and all regularly scheduled open swims at pools become free.
Early this month, councillors voted to expand a grant program that will now offer money to 200 low-income residents to help pay for air conditioners.
The city website states spending even a few hours a day in air conditioning can help during periods of extreme heat, when heat exhaustion and heat stroke are risks.
Drinking plenty of water, taking a cool bath or shower, closing curtains or blinds and limiting exercise are ways to prevent heat-related illness, the city says.
The website reminds Hamiltonians to check on neighbours and family members, and call a doctor if you have symptoms including paleness, muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, fainting or nausea.