MLHU issues single-day heat alert as Londoners try to stay cool
Thanks to temperatures soaring into the 30s, the Middlesex-London Health Unit (MLHU) has issued a one-day heat alert for Monday.
The forecast was calling for a high of 31C, but with the humidex, it was expected to feel like 35.
"It’s always a good day to eat ice cream but especially today,” says Lori Urquhart, who grabbed a scoop at the London Ice Cream Company.
The sweltering temperatures had many Londoners swarming to the splash pads at Gibbons Park, “Because it’s a hot day!” says six-year-old Matea.
Matea’s mom, Courtney Morris, was happy to let her three children cool off from the heat.
“We were almost up the hill to go back (home) and my daughter said, I am so hot! So we turned back around and let them run in the splash pads.”
But it’s not just heat that residents have to manage, Monday evening.
"Monday, it was really thick and it looked really really hazy,” says Patricia Beyea.
Last week the region experienced a number of smog days caused by the forest fires in Northern Ontario.
CTV News London Meteorologist Julie Atchison says the smoke from the forest fires is expected to trickle into the region.
“Heading into (Monday) night there is smoke in the forecast so that means the lower level winds, we are expecting that smoke filter down from Northern Ontario…The good news is I am not expecting our air quality to drop to poor. Our air quality will stay moderate, right now it is good. Heading into tonight we could briefly see those numbers go up just a bit.”
Atchison says the smog is expected to taper off by morning.
Randy Walker, public health inspector with the MLHU says the combination of heat and smoke could cause potential complications for those living with respiratory issues.
“Not only are you subject to the risks associated with high temperatures, but you are subject to the ability to appropriately respirate, so complications are abundant.”
He suggests finding a cool place indoors - away from dust and other pollutants.
“If you can keep those (out)…and keep cool, not only are you going to get comfort from the heat but you’ll get comfort from the air.”
Tuesday it is expected to cool off slightly, with showers and a daytime high of 28.
Here are some tips to cope with the heat:
- Monitor local weather forecasts and warnings regularly
- Drink plenty of water
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat and lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
- Take a cool bath or shower
- Limit outdoor activities to the coolest part of the day
- Do not leave children, adults or pets in parked cars
- Arrange for regular visits by family members, neighbours or friends during very hot days in case you need assistance.
- If you have an air conditioner, make sure it works properly before the hot weather starts. Otherwise, find an air-conditioned spot close by, where you can cool off for a few hours during very hot days (e.g., local pool, library, recreational centre, mall).
- Learn about ways to keep your home cool during the summer (e.g., keep window shades or drapes drawn and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home)
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.