Heat alert extended into weekend for Pickering to Oshawa and Uxbridge to Beaverton

A heat alert for most of Durham Region has been extended into the weekend.

The alert, covering Pickering to Oshawa in the south up to Uxbridge and Beaverton in the north, is for hot and humid conditions with daytime high temperatures reaching the low thirties with humidex values in the upper thirties.

There is a possibility the heat event could stretch into Sunday.

Overnight low temperatures near 20 degrees Celsius will provide little relief from the heat.

Hot and humid air can also bring deteriorating air quality and can result in the Air Quality Health Index approaching the high risk category.

• Watch for the effects of heat illness: swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of some health conditions.
• Check on older family, friends and neighbours. Make sure they are cool and drinking water.
• Seek a cool place such as a tree-shaded area, swimming pool, shower or bath, or air-conditioned spot like a public building.
• Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle.
• Outdoor workers should take regularly scheduled breaks in a cool place.

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.