Looking at the forecast, there’s a pretty good chance the region will set a heat record this weekend.
On Saturday, the current forecast is for a high of 27, with a 72-per-cent chance of showers and a possible thunderstorm in the morning. Sunday’s high is expected to be at least 31, with a chance of stray showers or a thunderstorm. Humidity both days is expected to make those highs feel even hotter.
Pretty high temperatures for the beginning of June, but not wildly so. Environment Canada weather data has the current record for June 5 at 28.9 degrees, set in 1955, and 31.1 degrees for June 6, set in 1976.
Even if the region doesn’t set a record, it is shaping up to be a hot and humid weekend. With that in mind, Public Health Sudbury & Districts offers some advice on avoiding heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke when the temperatures spike.
People who are most at risk include older adults, infants and young children, pregnant women, people with chronic illnesses, people who are homeless, people who use alcohol or illicit drugs, and those who work or exercise in the heat.
Those who take medications or have a health condition should consult their doctor or pharmacist to determine if they are at increased risk from the heat and follow their recommendations.
Ways to protect yourself:
- Drink lots of water. Avoid drinks made with alcohol or caffeine.
- Avoid going out in the sun or heat when possible.
- Keep electric lights off or turned down low.
- Take a cool bath or shower periodically, or cool down with cool, wet towels.
- Wear loose-fitting, light clothing and seek shade.
- Avoid eating heavy meals and using your oven.
- Try to take it easy and rest as much as possible.
- Place a dish of ice cubes in front of your electric fan. It has a cooling effect.
Ways to keep children safe:
- Breastfeed your child when they show signs of wanting to feed.
- Babies under 6 months of age do not need extra water in hot weather; however, you might need to feed them more often.
- Encourage babies over 6 months and children to drink frequently. Offer the breast or if not breastfeeding, offer water.
How to know if you or someone you know is suffering a heat-related illness:
- breathing rapidly
- feeling weak or fainting
- being more tired than usual
- cramping, usually in legs or abdomen
- developing a headache or confusion
If you or someone in your care has these symptoms, contact a health-care professional, friend, or family member for help. In emergencies, call 911.
Public Health Sudbury also offers information on beating the heat in apartment buildings, keeping your pets safe, doing outdoor activities in heat and smog, and keeping your children safe during hot weather.
