If you’ve been complaining about the weather lately, you might want to prepare for the complete opposite problem. The Middlesex-London Health Unit is giving everyone a heads up that Environment and Climate Change Canada is expected to issue an Extended Heat Warning starting this Sunday, June 22nd, and lasting through Wednesday, June 25th.
We’re talking four straight days of seriously high temperatures, which honestly sounds like the kind of weather that makes you question why you ever complained about those chilly spring mornings. But here’s the thing that’s got health officials particularly concerned – those overnight temperatures aren’t going to give us much relief either.
The health unit announced the anticipated warning on Friday, giving Londoners a chance to get their heat game plan sorted before the temperatures really start climbing. When overnight temps don’t drop enough to give your body a break, that’s when heat-related illnesses become a real concern.
The warning covers our entire region, so whether you’re in the downtown core or out in Middlesex County, you’re going to want to start thinking about how to stay cool. The health unit is particularly emphasizing the importance of checking in on family, friends, and neighbours who might be more vulnerable to extreme heat.
If you’re wondering what exactly constitutes a heat-related illness or want to brush up on your extreme heat survival skills, the Middlesex-London Health Unit has put together information at healthunit.com/extreme-heat. Because let’s be honest, most of us probably aren’t as prepared for a heat wave as we think we are.
The timing of this warning means your weekend plans might need some adjustments. Sunday through Wednesday is going to be particularly intense, so if you were planning any outdoor activities, you’ll want to think about timing and hydration strategies.
Four consecutive days of high heat isn’t exactly what most people picture when they think about London weather, but here we are. The health unit’s early warning gives everyone a chance to prepare properly and make sure the most vulnerable members of our community have the support they need to get through the heat wave safely.