Brampton and Mississauga residents are being urged to take extra precautions as Environment Canada’s heat warning continues, with temperatures and humidity pushing conditions into dangerous territory.
The national weather agency says Monday’s high is expected to hit 33°C, but with humidity, it will feel closer to 40°C. The sweltering trend is forecast to persist into Tuesday, with a humidex in the low 40s, before a possible cooldown late Tuesday night. However, the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area may not see relief until Wednesday.
The advisory warns that hot and humid air can also worsen air quality, potentially pushing the Air Quality Health Index into the high-risk range. This could pose serious health risks, especially for vulnerable populations such as older adults, young children, people with chronic illnesses, and those without access to air conditioning.
Residents are encouraged to check in, by phone or in person, on neighbours and family members who may be more susceptible to heat-related illness. Early signs of heat exhaustion include headache, nausea, dizziness, excessive thirst, dark urine, and fatigue. Anyone showing symptoms of heat stroke, such as red, hot skin, confusion, nausea, or loss of consciousness, should receive immediate medical attention by calling 911.
Environment Canada recommends staying hydrated by drinking water frequently, even before feeling thirsty. Residents should keep blinds or shades closed during the day, use fans or air conditioning, and, if needed, seek out cooling centres, libraries, or shaded public spaces. Outdoor activities should be planned for early morning or evening hours when temperatures are lower, and loose, light-coloured clothing with wide-brimmed hats is advised.
Thunderstorms are possible Tuesday evening, with showers lingering into Wednesday. Daytime highs are expected to dip to 30°C on Wednesday, followed by more comfortable temperatures of 28°C on Thursday and 29°C on Friday.
However, the break will be short-lived. The weekend will see a return to hot and humid weather, with highs of 32°C expected on both Saturday and Sunday, along with the risk of storms on Sunday.
Authorities are reminding residents: never leave children, pets, or anyone unattended inside a parked vehicle, even for a short period, as temperatures inside can rise rapidly to deadly levels.
