This week, a temperature spike is expected to push Hamilton’s humidex into the 40s, prompting the city to issue a heat warning.
The city issues a heat warning whenever the forecasted temperatures are expected to exceed 31 Celsius for two consecutive days or more.
That warning can become an extended heat warning if the period prolongs beyond two days.
“Dangerous hot and humid conditions are expected through most of the week,” the city said on Sunday. “Daytime highs are expected to be 30 to 35 degrees Celsius with humidex values of 40 to 45.”
The city says all scheduled open swims at its indoor pools will be free of charge throughout the heat wave.
As part of its heat response plan, the city will also operate several “cooling places” around town where residents can find respite from the increased temperatures.
For a complete list of air-conditioned spaces open to the public, click here.
Senior Environment Canada climatologist David Phillips calls the phenomenon a “heat dome.”
He describes it as a large area of extreme heat that’s caused when the atmosphere traps hot air and slowly bakes it in place.
“There are clearly some health issues that people need to be aware of,” Phillips said, calling heat a “silent killer.”
During periods of extended heat, the city says residents should be wary of heat exhaustion and watch for signs of heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale and clammy skin, weak pulse, fainting, and vomiting.
If you or anyone you know are experiencing any of these symptoms, dial 9-1-1 and try to get to some shade.
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