A heat warning has been issued for much of central Saskatchewan. (file photo/Kittisak Jirasittichai | Dreamstime.com)

By Michael Joel-Hansen

Feeling the heat

Warm weather prompts heat warnings for much of central Sask.

Jul 22, 2020 | 12:37 PM

Many parts of central Saskatchewan are under a heat warning.

Environment and Climate Change Canada is forecasting a high of 29 Celsius — 35 with the humidex for Prince Albert and the surrounding area.

Melfort and surrounding area is expected to see a high of 29 C, 37 with the humidex. While North Battleford and area are also feeling the heat, with a forecasted high of 31 C, 35 with the humidex.

The humidex amount, which combines humidity and the temperature, can make the outdoor temperature feel hotter than the actual forecast. In humidex readings in the mid to high 30’s, Environment Canada recommends toning down or modifying certain types of outdoor exercises.

Terri Lang, a meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, explained the warm conditions are in part a result of a building ridge of high pressure.

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“We’re getting heat from the States finally, as opposed to the jet stream bringing us kind of cooler air from the North or more moderate air from the West,” she said.

Lang said the warm conditions are expected to stick around until Friday, when a cold front is expected to move through and bring cooler temperatures.

“They’re becoming more common place after we did the research and found that the effects of the heat were felt at much lower temperatures than what are previous criteria were,” Lang said.

Director of Public Affairs for Parkland Ambulance Lyle Karasiuk said with the hotter temperatures, safety should be kept top of mind.

“The hottest time of the day obviously is from about 11 in the morning until about three in the afternoon, so if you don’t have to be outside, then find some shade,” he said.

Karasiuk said people should also be sure to keep themselves well hydrated. He added parents with infants should make sure to keep an eye on them and also make sure to apply sunscreen to themselves and their child. Older people should also be careful as they may be may be taking medications which could lead to them being more susceptible to heat-related problems.

When it comes to heat-related issues, Karasiuk said people should watch for symptoms like feeling light-headed, a queasy stomach or a dizzy feeling.

For people doing work outside, Karasiuk said they should be on the lookout for things like cramping in their hands.

“That’s a good sign that you’re probably quite low in fluids,” he said.

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MichaelJoel.Hansen@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @mjhskcdn