Feels like 48: Prairies see records break and bake under heat dome
Extreme heat has pushed onto the southern Prairies as other parts of the region continue to deal with a persistent, daily threat of severe weather
The Prairies have been the centre of much of the country's severe weather in recent days, and is now the focus of the heat, as well, for the time being.
In fact, some all-time temperature and humidex records are at risk, in Canada and the U.S., with the extreme heat that has moved in. Meanwhile, Sunday will see the risk of severe weather pop up again, with different at-risk regions for the day and nighttime.
DON'T MISS: Why extreme heat is one of the world’s deadliest weather disasters
Stay aware of severe weather watches and warnings in your area, and heat alerts, especially if you have outdoor plans. Heed all warnings and stay hydrated.
Sunday storm threat shifts during the overnight
With the majority of Sunday's storm threat being held to Alberta, we'll see the storm threat shift south and east overnight, moving into Saskatoon and Regina, as well as into Manitoba's Interlake region--with severe possible in that swath.
Hail and strong winds look to be the primary hazards with those storms, although heavy downpours are also possible in some of Manitoba's flood-stricken areas.
Overnight temperatures will also not give any relief from the daytime heat, with Winnipeg's overnight low forecast to only sink to 27 degrees (feeling like 33). Winnipeg’s warmest overnight low on record was 28.3°C on July 12, 1936.
SEE ALSO: No air conditioner? Here's how to keep cool during extreme heat
Major heat building through the middle of July
We’re watching a significant ridge of high pressure, known as a heat dome, building over the north-central United States.
This will not be a dry heat, which increases the potential for heat-related illnesses in vulnerable people. Humidity prevents sweat from evaporating efficiently, precluding our ability to cool off without air conditioning.
All-time humidex records were broken across the Prairies on Sunday, making it feel hotter out than it ever has.
Winnipeg felt a humidex of 48 on Sunday, breaking the city's all-time record that was set back in June 2007. Brandon may have actually tied their all-time humidex record on Sunday as well, while Dauphin came just short.
Hopefully we won't see any communities break Canada's all-time humidex record, which currently belongs to Carman, Man., after a scorching July day in 2007 felt like 52.5.
A cold front will slide across Saskatchewan on Monday and allow temperatures to fall, but another day of excessive temperatures is forecast for southern Manitoba.
Heat is expected to ease slightly across all of the Prairies on Tuesday thanks to the ridge flattening slightly, but temperatures will still remain near the 30s through the week.
Heat safety is vital
Extreme heat claims more lives around the world than any other type of severe weather.
Everyone is susceptible to heat-related illnesses without taking proper precautions, such as frequent breaks, adequate hydration, and air conditioning.
The compounding stress of hot days followed by muggy nights can be especially hard on vulnerable populations like the elderly, those with chronic health conditions, and folks who live without access to air conditioning. Keep in mind that certain medications can lower your body’s heat tolerance.