CMEDIA: Heat, air quality and ‘severe’ thunderstorm warnings reportedly this weekend have been issued for several provinces and territories.
A total of 191 alerts regarding heat and thunderstorms, and 342 alerts for air quality are in place as of Saturday, according to the weather service.
Heat warnings have been issued for Ontario, Quebec, Alberta and Newfoundland and Labrador with storm alerts active in Quebec and Ontario as well.
Temperatures around 30 C on Sat through Sun could be seen by Alberta with forecasts of cooler temperatures for Monday, according to Environment Canada.
“Monitor for symptoms of heat stroke or heat exhaustion, such as high body temperature, lack of sweat, confusion, fainting, and unconsciousness,” the alert advises.
Newfoundland and Labrador will see daytime temperatures hitting 33 C with “an extended period of hot and dry weather.”
Hot and humid conditions could be expected in Southern Ontario through the next week.
Although temperatures are expected to ease on Sun and Mon, hot and humid conditions return on Tuesday.
Daytime highs could reach 32 C with a humidex of 35 to 40.
Areas in Ontario on thunderstorm watch include Dunchurch, Thessalon, Eastern Algonquin Park, Ragnar Lake, Killarney, Foleyet, Greater Sudbury, Baysville, Englehart, Mattawa, Burk’s Falls, Temagami, Iroquois Falls, Killbear Park, French River and Lake of Two Rivers.
“Dangerous thunderstorms this afternoon and evening may be capable of producing severe wind gusts, a tornado, and heavy rain,” the alert reads.
The alert also warns of.severe wind gusting up to 110 km/h and an isolated tornado may appear this afternoon into the evening,
Quebec is expected to see a hot and humid weekend with a humidex of around 40 through Sunday.
Areas in Quebec under thunderstorm watch include Amos, Dorval Lodge, Fort William-Shawville, La Sarre, Le Domaine, Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Malartic, Rapides-des-Joachims, Rouyn, Senneterre, Témiscaming, Val d’Or – Louvicourt and Ville-Marie.
“Late this afternoon and this evening, conditions will be favourable for the development of dangerous thunderstorms capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy downpours,” the weather agency said.
Residents of both the provinces are advised to protect themselves from the effects of heat and thunderstorms.
Air quality warnings are issued for regions including Manitoba, Northwest Territories, Ontario and Saskatchewan.
Residents of Manitoba over the age of 65, pregnant women and young children are urged to avoid being outdoors due to the wildfire smoke in the area.
“Smoke is causing or expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility,” the alert reads. “During heavy smoke conditions, everyone’s health is at risk regardless of their age or health status.”
Areas in Ontario and Saskatchewan are under similar air quality warnings due to wildfire smoke, which could persist through the weekend, alerts noted.
Additionally Environment Canada has issued air quality alerts for Ft. Liard Region including Nahanni Butte in Sambaa K’e in Northwest Territories. .
“Wildfires burning southwest of Sambaa Ke are causing locally poor air quality,” the alert said. “Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour.”
Mild symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritations or headaches may be experienced by residents.
But immediate medical attention should be sought by anyone experiencing less common symptoms including wheezing, chest pains or severe cough.
Further information about protecting yourself from the health effects of extreme heat exposure are available on the Government’s website.
