As temperatures are anticipated to reach in the mid-30s on July 17, with an even higher humidex level, local residents can cool down at the Fergus Sportsplex.
At the start of the July 16 council session, Mayor Joanne Ross-Zuj stated the municipality recieved notification that there might be a humidex warning for July 17.
"I would like to remind residents that our cooling station is the sportplex and it will be open if that is the case – if we continue to have this oppressive weather condition. It's really heavy out there right now."
Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health has since noted that Environment Canada has issued a humidex advisory for Wellington county (including the city of Guelph) and Dufferin County.
It's website noted the peak of the current heat episode is expected today as torrid temperatures and high humidity spread across all of southern Ontario.
Humidex values ranging from 40 to 45 are expected. General relief should come in the form of a cold front tonight bringing somewhat cooler and less humid conditions for Wednesday with the possible exception of extreme southwestern Ontario. This front is expected to generate scattered thunderstorms, a few of which may become severe.
Recommendations from WDG Public Health are that during times of high heat and humidity residents should:
– Stay out of the sun
– Drink lots of water
– Limit outdoor activity to morning and evening hours
– Stay in air conditioned places
– Seniors and young children are particularly at risk during when it’s hot.
Help others by:
– Checking in regularly with isolated seniors and adults
– Calling or visiting family, friends, and neighbours to make sure they’re okay
– Note that community centres, wading pools, and splash pads are great places to keep cool.
Signs of heat illness
If you have any of these symptoms, get medical attention immediately:
– Rapid breathing
– Weakness or fainting
– Headache
– Confusion
– Nausea (feel sick to your stomach)
– Dizziness
– Blurred vision
– Convulsions (shaking)
– High body temperature
In an emergency, call 911.
For more information on heat safety, call Public Health at 1-800-265-7293 ext. 2673 or visit the health unit's extreme heat web page.
