Moving Day is over for many Quebecers, but the heat wave that made that endeavour even more arduous than usual continues.
Environment and Climate Change Canada upgraded an earlier severe thunderstorm watch to a severe thunderstorm warning Thursday evening for the Montreal Island area.
Around 7:30 p.m., meteorologists said they were tracking a severe thunderstorm capable of producing damaging wind gusts, hail up to the size of quarters and heavy rain. Localized utility outages are possible, the agency said.
ECCC urged residents to take immediate shelter if a thunderstorm approaches and warned people outdoors to protect themselves from flying debris and hail. The agency also noted severe thunderstorms can produce tornadoes.
Earlier Thursday, a yellow heat warning was also issued by ECCC for the Montreal area and most of Quebec.
Montreal reached a high of 32.1 C on Thursday, with humid conditions making it feel significantly hotter. An overnight low of 24 C is expected.
Temperatures and humidity will decrease beginning on Saturday, according to ECCC.
How to cope with a heat wave
Maude-Andrée Meloche carries a poster into her new apartment in Verdun. John Mahoney / Montreal Gazette
Speaking to The Gazette Tuesday, Montreal public health assistant director David Kaiser offered these tips for staying safe amid sky-high temperatures:
Stay hydrated
Avoid or limit alcohol intake, which can lead to dehydration
Take breaks if working outdoors or in indoor spaces without air conditioning
If you have a cool space, invite people over to keep out of the heat