First heat wave of summer | “We must prepare,” warns Environment Canada

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Lea Carrier
Press

A special weather report was published by Environment Canada on Saturday to warn the populations affected by the heat wave. “You have to be prepared for the heat,” warns meteorologist Maja Rapaic.

Starting this Sunday, a “mass of hot and humid air” will sweep the regions of the southwest of the province, from Pontiac to Estrie, and from Mauricie to Vaudreuil-Soulanges.

Temperatures above 30 ° C are expected there, with feelings of up to 39.

Monday will be the hottest day, especially in Greater Montreal, where the temperature will be around 40. The next few nights will also be hot, with minimum temperatures of 20 ° C.

The temperature should tend towards seasonal norms overnight from Tuesday to Wednesday. In Montreal, we will have to wait until Wednesday morning.

According to M^me Rapaic, this heat wave is not abnormal in this season. However, the summer may be “hotter than usual” in the southwest of the province. In the rest of Quebec, we are announcing a summer similar to the previous ones.

Early opening of the beaches

In anticipation of the heat episode, the Municipality of Gatineau has brought forward the opening of its beaches, in order to offer its residents places to cool off. Thus, the beaches of Moussette and Cèdres parks, which were to open on June 19, will be exceptionally open next Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, we can read in a press release issued by the City.

In Montreal, the vast majority of municipal outdoor swimming pools and wading pools must still open according to the usual schedule, which is June 19. However, the City ensures that it takes all the necessary precautions to protect its residents.

“In anticipation of the oppressive heat episode expected for the next few days, Montreal, through its Civil Protection Center, is monitoring the situation closely and coordinating actions with the boroughs in order to put in place the necessary measures to provide to the population of the means to refresh themselves ”, indicated the spokesperson Mélanie Gagné by email.

She recalls that the measures may vary according to the boroughs and calls on residents to “stay on the lookout for the various communications from the City on this subject”.

Recommendations

During extreme heat, “your state of health or that of your loved ones can deteriorate rapidly,” warns Environment Canada. To protect yourself during a heat wave, it is recommended to drink six to eight glasses of water a day and, if possible, spend at least two hours a day in an air-conditioned or cool place. It is also advisable to reduce physical efforts and to cool off regularly, with a wet towel or by taking a shower or a bath.

Finally, Environment Canada suggests that it be diligent in taking news of those close to them, especially vulnerable people and those who live alone.

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