Heat Warning Notification for the City of Hamilton effective August 9, 2016
HAMILTON, ON – August 8, 2016 - The Medical Officer of Health for the City of Hamilton has called a Heat Warning effective for August 9, 2016.
Hot and humid weather will return beginning the afternoon of Tuesday, August 9, 2016. Temperatures are forecast to reach the low 30s, with humidex values approaching the mid 30s.
Hot and humid conditions will continue on Wednesday through Friday, with peak afternoon temperatures reaching the low to mid 30s, and a humidex near 40. The warm and muggy daytime conditions will be accompanied by poor overnight cooling, failing to provide much of a break from the almost relentless heat. Some relief from the daytime heat is possible near the shorelines of the Great Lakes if a breeze off the lake develops. This may be the longest and most significant heat wave of the summer so far.
Latest indications suggest a weak cold front, along with a chance of showers and thunderstorms, may move through sometime Friday night. If this occurs as forecast, some relief from the heat and humidity will be expected in time for next weekend.
The City of Hamilton and participating community agencies are responding to the heat by offering “cool places” to go to during all stages of a heat event. They can be identified by a “Cool Down Here” sign at their entrances, along with a heat meter sign, which indicates which stage we are at. As part of the heat response plan, Free Admission will be available for all Public Swims, Family Swims, Adult Swims and Seniors Swims at all indoor and outdoor pools. Schedules can be found at www.hamilton.ca/recreation.
Supie program will operate for the morning only, Monday through Thursday.
There are many spray pads, additional cool places, and outdoor pools available across Hamilton. Visit www.hamilton.ca/heat for more information.
The Salvation Army has launched its mobile water distribution response and is distributing water to citizens in need of hydration.
Risk of heat-related illness can be reduced by following these recommendations:
- Drink plenty of water. Avoid drinking alcoholic and caffeinated beverages on hot days.
- Go to an air-conditioned place. Visit a cool place such as a mall, public recreation centres, public libraries, and other City run air-conditioned facilities, etc.
- Dress to protect from the heat. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light coloured clothing. Wear a hat or take an umbrella to keep your head cool and don’t forget sunscreen.
- Take it easy. Limit physical activities (walking, running, gardening, etc.) during the day. If rescheduling activities to dawn or dusk when it may be cooler, protect yourself with insect repellent as mosquitoes are more active at such times. Check labels to apply.
- Cool off. Take a cool bath or shower.
- Keep your living space cool. Close your blinds or curtains. When the temperature is cooler outside than inside; open windows to let air circulate when using a fan.
- Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles. Temperatures in a car can become life threatening within minutes.
- Check on your neighbours and family.
Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale and clammy skin; weak pulse, fainting and vomiting. If experiencing symptoms, seek help right away – call 911 if needed. Information on how heat affects human health is available on the Health Canada website.
For tips on coping with the heat and places where to cool off, the public can contact 905-546-2489 Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm or visit www.hamilton.ca/heat. Heat information is available online in 13 languages.