Much of Manitoba is in for another day of dangerous heat after many communities climbed into the mid-30s on Sunday, prompting Environment and Climate Change Canada to continue its heat warning across much of the region.
An orange-level heat warning, issued early Monday morning, remains in effect for Winnipeg and most of southern Manitoba. Meanwhile, central and parts of northern Manitoba are under yellow-level heat warnings.
Environment Canada is forecasting daytime highs in the mid-30s, with humidex values climbing into the mid to upper 40s.
“We have our heat warnings continuing for today,” Environment Canada meteorologist Kayla Bilos says.
“We’re expecting temperatures again to reach the mid-30s today. In Winnipeg we’re expecting a high of 35 and then humidex values again in the mid to upper 40s. So it’s going to be another scorching day today.”
Despite the intense heat, Bilos says there is some good news for communities that have been dealing with recent flooding.
“Luckily there’s no risk of thunderstorms,” she says. “There were a couple of thunderstorms that happened overnight, but nothing too severe or anything like that.”
Relief is on the way
Bilos said the current heat warning is expected to end Tuesday morning as temperatures begin to ease.
“As of right now, according to our heat warning criteria, we will be ending these by Tuesday morning,” she said.
However, she cautioned that Manitobans shouldn’t expect a significant cooldown.
“We’re going to be seeing temperatures in the upper 20s and lower 30s for the foreseeable future,” Bilos said. “It’s going to be technically not heat warning criteria, but it’s still really hot summer temperatures ahead.”
Heat-related illness can develop quickly
Environment Canada says prolonged exposure to extreme heat can affect anyone, with older adults, young children, people with chronic illnesses, outdoor workers, and those without access to air conditioning at greater risk of heat-related illness.
Officials recommend drinking water regularly, limiting strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, seeking air-conditioned spaces when possible, and checking on neighbours, friends, and family members who may be vulnerable to the heat.
Anyone showing signs of heat stroke, including confusion, loss of consciousness, or hot, red skin, should receive immediate medical attention by calling 911.