Heat waves in Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick: Keeping track of the numbers

Wednesday, July 17, 2013, 3:55 PM -

Ontarians have been struggling to stay cool since the weekend, when temperatures climbed above 30°C -- but felt closer to 40°C in some places, thanks to the humidity.

Relief is still a few days away: Humidex values are expected to soar past 40 until at least Friday, prompting widespread humidex advisories from Windsor through to Ottawa.

File photo courtesy of Thomas Rollins

The heat alert that was issued in Toronto was upgraded to an Extreme Heat Alert early Tuesday. That means several cooling centres will be open across the city. 

Things are heating up in Quebec as well.

Montreal is in the midst of its first-ever heat wave, and it will likely last until Thursday.

Temperatures have been hovering around the low thirties in St. Stephen, New Brunswick as well. Earlier this week, St. John's Newfoundland hit 30°C for the first time in 30 years -- leaving residents (and pets) scrambling to keep cool.

According to Dayna Vettese, a meteorologist at The Weather Network, hot weather doesn't automatically mean "heat wave."

There's special criteria required for the distinction: In Quebec, a heat wave is declared after three or more consecutive days when the temperature (not the humidex) reaches 30°C or higher. Across the rest of the country, a heat wave is declared when temps reach, or top, 32°C for three days. 

During all bouts of hot weather, residents are encouraged to call or visit family, friends and neighbours -- especially isolated adults and seniors who are at greater risk of suffering from heat-related illness -- and make sure they are keeping cool and drinking plenty of fluids.

HEAT WAVES: KEEPING TRACK OF THE NUMBERS

Last updated: 07/17/2013, 3 p.m. EDT

BEAT THE HEAT

• Stay inside an air conditioned building, or seek shade.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Limit outdoor physical activity.
• Consider rescheduling outdoor events.
• Check on your neighbours, particularly the elderly, children and people suffering from a chronic disease or mental illness.

Be sure to check your local forecast and UV Report before heading out.