Heat warning issued for Kingston and area

Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for the Kingston area, as extreme heat is expected through the coming days.

At 1:47 p.m. on Thursday, Jul. 18, 2019, the national weather agency issued the warning for Kingston, Odessa, Frontenac Islands, Napanee, Consecon, Picton, and Sandbanks Park, stating that significant heat and humidity will arrive on Friday.

“Daytime temperatures in the low to mid-thirties with afternoon humidex values of 40 or higher and night time minimum temperatures in the low to mid-twenties are expected for Friday and Saturday,” the warning reads. “A cooler and less humid air mass is forecast to arrive in the wake of a weak cold front Sunday.”

Environment Canada reminds that extreme heat affects everyone, and that risks are greater for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, and people working or exercising outdoors.

“Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle,” Environment Canada said in the warning.

Additionally, Kingston Frontenac Lennox and Addington (KFL&A) Public Health has also issued a heat warning, recommending the following tips to stay cool:

• Drinking plenty of cool liquids, especially water, before feeling thirsty.
• Avoiding direct sun exposure, for example, by sitting under a tree, wearing a wide-brimmed, breathable hat, or using an umbrella.
• Taking a break from the heat by spending a few hours in a cool place; take cool showers.
• Rescheduling strenuous outdoor activity or planning outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day.
• Wearing loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric.
• Blocking the sun out by closing awnings, curtains or blinds during the day.
• Never leaving people or pets in your care inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.

” KFL&A Public Health encourages people to visit neighbours, friends, and older family members frequently, especially those who are chronically ill, and those at higher risk, to make sure that they are cool and hydrated,” the local health unit said in a press release.

Stay hydrated, Kingston! For a map of water bottle refill stations in Kingston and the area, click here and type your location into the map.