A period of extreme heat is expected for much of southern Manitoba for Thursday and into Friday. Daytime high around 30 degrees Celsius, and overnight lows of 16 degrees Celsius, will be present over the next couple of days. Humidity will also be a factor, with Humidex values of 38 or higher expected.
A slow-moving ridge of high pressure is responsible for bringing the extreme heat into Manitoba. Regions in western Manitoba will see an intense day of heat and humidity Thursday with daytimes highs in the low 30s, and humidex values in the 40s. Regions to the east, including Winnipeg, will see a more prolonged exposure to the heat with Thursday and Friday having humidex values of 38 or higher. Beginning Friday, cooler air will push into the province from the west.
Stay out of the sun during the peak hours of 11 AM – 3 p.m., whenever possible. If you need to be outside, wear appropriate sunscreen, a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses and light, loose-fitting cotton clothes. Avoid any extreme physical exertion and keep in the shade whenever possible. Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as you can. If you do not have air conditioning at home, know where to go to cool down. Air-conditioned public spaces include malls, leisure centres, libraries, etc. Stay hydrated with cold water and cold drinks.
Check on neighbours, family and friends and have someone do the same for you. The health risks are greater for older adults, infants and young children, pregnant people, people with physical and/or mental illnesses, and people with disabilities or mobility issues. Watch for the effects of heat illness: swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of some health conditions.
Extreme heat affects everyone. Heat illnesses are preventable. To reduce the health effects of heat:
– Take a cool shower or bath or take a break in a cool location, such as an air-conditioned building or a tree-shaded area.
– Stay out of direct sunlight and wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing and a wide-brimmed hat or shade yourself with an umbrella.
– Drink plenty of water, before you feel thirsty and stay in a cool place. If you must go out, take water with you.
– Keep your house cool. Block the sun out by closing curtains, blinds, and awnings during the day
– Never leave people or pets in a parked vehicle.
– Check on family, friends and neighbours. Check regularly on people living alone, especially older individuals or people with health conditions. Make sure they are cool and drinking water.
– Watch for the effects of heat illness: swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, and the worsening of some health conditions.
– Watch for signs of heat stroke (which may begin with headache, hot skin, dizziness or confusion) and take action immediately.
For more information on heat and your health:
– Visit Manitoba Health at: Heat and Your Health | Health | Province of Manitoba
– Call Health Links – Info Santé at 204-788-8200 or toll-free at 1-888-315-9257.
For more information specific to workplaces and heat strain, visit Heat Strain at Work with Dr. Denise Koh | SAFE Work Manitoba (safemanitoba.com)
