Heatwave headed to southern Ontario with heat alert issued for Whitby to Welland to Windsor

Hot and humid conditions are expected through the rest of the week as a strong heat dome situated over the central U.S. points north-east tomorrow, with temperatures soaring past 30 C Wednesday and 40 degrees with the humidex by Friday.

Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for Wednesday through Friday for most of southern Ontario, from Clarington to Niagara Falls and west all the way to Windsor.

Thursday’s forecast will be slightly cooler but very humid and Friday will likely be the hottest day of the year so far with temperatures in the mid-30s.

Minimum temperatures in the low twenties will provide little relief from the heat but cooler temperatures are expected Saturday.

Most communities in Durham Region will have cooling stations available and splash pads and pools will remain open until dusk.

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

Keep an eye out for symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke in those most susceptible: swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of some health conditions.

Heat Alerts are issued when two or more consecutive days of humidex values are expected to reach 40 or higher.

Keep monitoring Environment Canada for more alerts and forecasts.