Public-health officials issued safety warnings on Tuesday morning amid an expected blast of heat that could deliver daytime temperatures of 31 C across Southwestern Ontario.
Public-health officials issued safety warnings on Tuesday morning amid an expected blast of heat that could deliver daytime temperatures of 31 C across Southwestern Ontario.
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That scorching high – which would tie the record for hottest May 21 ever recorded in London (1941) – was expected to be coupled with “hot and humid conditions,” Environment Canada warned, and drew cautions even though the weather didn’t technically trigger heat-related safety protocols.
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“Conditions do not meet heat-warning criteria but could pose health risks,” said Karalyn Dueck, the top doctor with Lambton Public Health, which oversees Sarnia and Lambton County, “particularly to those vulnerable to the heat who are not yet acclimatized to the warmer weather.
“Heat-related illnesses are a high risk for the elderly, children and those with chronic illnesses.”
Environment Canada expects Tuesday’s daytime high of 31 C to be followed by overnight temperatures of 21 C. By Wednesday, temperatures should be “slightly cooler,” the national weather agency states.
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Until then, London-area residents are advised to drink plenty of cool liquids before feeling thirsty and to dress for the weather and seek shade.
In its statement, Lambton Public Health officials noted that symptoms of heat-related illness can include rapid breathing, dizziness or fainting, vomiting, a rapid heart beat, extreme thirst and decreased urination.
After the Victoria Day long weekend ushered in the unofficial start of summer, Londoners should expect a week of largely sunshine. Rain is possible on Wednesday but clear, sunny skies are expected Thursday through Saturday, the national weather agency states, with daytime highs ranging from 19 C to 27 C.
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