Ontario, Quebec, large swathes of U.S. swelter under heat dome

A persistent heat dome continues to blanket much of Ontario and southwestern Quebec, bringing scorching temperatures and high humidity levels to the region. Environment Canada issued a heat warning for the area, predicting that the hot and humid conditions will linger until at least Wednesday.

The affected communities range from southwestern Ontario to areas further north like Sudbury and Timmins. In Quebec, the hottest temperatures are expected in regions from Montreal to Shawinigan and north to Abitibi. Meteorologist Julien Pellerin from Environment Canada anticipates that Monday and Tuesday will see peak daytime highs, with temperatures surpassing 30 degrees Celsius. The humidex factor will make it feel even hotter, reaching between 40 to 45 degrees Celsius depending on the specific location.

Despite the intense heat, Pellerin reassures that this heatwave will be short-lived. By the end of Tuesday and Wednesday, a transition in the air mass is expected to occur over Quebec and Ontario, providing relief from the extreme temperatures.

In light of the heatwave, residents are advised to stay hydrated by drinking water even before feeling thirsty, watch out for signs of heat exhaustion, and avoid overexerting themselves. Pellerin emphasized the importance of being aware of one’s own body and taking breaks, as well as finding a cool location with air conditioning to rest.

Schools in Quebec have been urged to remain vigilant as temperatures rise. An assistant deputy education minister sent a letter encouraging schools to implement necessary preventive measures for everyone’s safety. Depending on the circumstances, schools may consider closing on June 23rd to ensure the well-being of students and staff.

The extreme heat in eastern Canada has led to contrasting weather conditions in other regions, such as below-normal temperatures resulting in wet snow and heavy rain warnings in the West. The Prairies are experiencing colder air due to the heat dome over Ontario and Quebec.

Meanwhile, in British Columbia, heavy showers and wet snow were forecasted over the weekend. In Alberta, heavy rainfall advisories were lifted by Sunday, but the Calgary Fire Department cautioned against boating and water activities on the Bow River due to increased water flow. The Water Security Agency in Saskatchewan also warned of rising water levels in the South Saskatchewan River due to additional runoff from Alberta.

Across the border in the United States, a widespread heatwave has engulfed the northeastern quadrant from Minnesota to Maine, along with parts of Arkansas, Tennessee, Louisiana, and Mississippi. The National Weather Service reported heat advisories in these areas, highlighting the unusual extent of the heatwave beyond the Rockies.

As the heatwave persists, New York City is bracing for temperatures around 95 degrees Fahrenheit on Monday and Tuesday. Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in 32 New York state counties due to the forecasted extreme heat and strong storms.

Overall, residents in Ontario, Quebec, and neighboring regions are advised to take necessary precautions to stay safe and cool during this intense heatwave.