Feeling hot, hot, hot? Environment Canada says heat event set to begin Tuesday

Grab the water bottles and find some shade a heat event is expected to begin Tuesday, Environment Canada says.

• Latest Waterloo region conditions from CBC Weather

A heat warning was issued Monday for Waterloo region, Guelph and Wellington County. The heat is expected to stick around until Thursday.

Temperatures will rise to the high 20s or low 30s, but the humidex will make it feel more like the high 30s or low 40s, the warning said.

Shem Willie, a meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, says it isn't expected to cool off much overnight to provide relief, "making for very uncomfortable conditions during that time period."

Hot and humid air can also mean deteriorating air quality,the weather agency said.

Willie says people need to remember to drink plenty of water, even before feeling thirsty, and stay in a cool place.

"Extreme heat affects everyone," the warning said. "Heat warnings are issued when very high temperature or humidity conditions are expected to pose an elevated risk of heat illnesses, such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion."

The forecast for the next few days:

• Tuesday will see a mix of sun and cloud and a high of 30 C, but a humidex value of 37. The UV index is nine, or very high. There's a 30 per cent chance of showers in the afternoon.
• Wednesday will be sunny with a high of 30 C with a humidex of 36.
• Thursday, cloudy with a 60 per cent chance of showers and a high of 26 C.

Cooling centres

The Region of Waterloo has designated cooling centres at its offices at 150 Main St. in Cambridge, 150 Frederick St. in Kitchener, which are both open seven days a week, and 99 Regina St. S. in Waterloo, which is open during regular business hours Monday to Friday.

Other places to cool off include local libraries and some community centres. More information can be found on the region's website.

Take precautions

Region of Waterloo Public Health notes extreme heat can impact anyone, but particularly at risk are:

• Older adults.
• Infants and young children.
• Outdoor workers.
• People planning outdoor sports or activities.
• People with chronic illness.
• People who live alone.
• People experiencing homelessness.

Public health reminds people to never leave anyone or pets inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.

People exposed to extreme heat may suffer from:

• Dizziness or fainting.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Headache.
• Rapid breathing and heartbeat.
• Extreme thirst.
• Decreased urination.

Public health says ways people can protect themselves from the heat and humidity include:

• Plan ahead and modify plans according to the weather.
• Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water.
• Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric.
• Seek shade and avoid the sun.
• Take a break from the heat and spend a few hours in a cool place.
• Take a cool shower or bath.
• Black the sun by closing curtains or blinds during the day.
• Prepare meals that don't require the stove.

"Frequently connect with vulnerable neighbours, friends and older family members, especially those who are chronically ill, to make sure they are cool and hydrated," public health's website says.