Heat set to roll in
All three Maritime provinces under special weather statement as humid air arrives on the Canada Day weekend
Environment Canada meteorologist Linda Libby said summer is going to hit Prince Edward Island at full force this weekend.
After one of the coolest Junes on record for the Island, all three Maritime provinces are under special weather statements.
A warm and humid air mass will gradually settle over the Maritimes this weekend and persist into early next week. This air mass has the potential to bring very warm temperatures and elevated humidex values to the Island.
“It is going to be a little stressor for people to go from this cool June to something at the start of July that’s pretty warm for P.E.I.,’’ Libby said Friday.
Today’s forecast is sunny with a rather comfortable 23 C predicted high, but the temperatures keep going up from there to 26 C and sunny on Canada Day and a high of 29 with sun from Monday to Wednesday. Libby said the hot humid weather will then take a break and return at the end of the week.
Libby said it will feel like 30 C on Canada Day and up to 34 C on Monday and just over 35 C on Tuesday.
Still, Libby doesn’t think Environment Canada will be issuing any heat warnings for P.E.I.
Libby said a number of factors determine heat warning criteria, including two or more days of daytime maximum temperatures exceeding 27 C and minimum temperatures of 18 C at night.
“Or, two or more consecutive days with humidex values to reach 35 or higher. Right now, we’re not going to be there. We are approaching it, and it will certainly be much warmer than we have been for a good portion of (June).’’
Environment Canada recommends people drink plenty of water, find shade, use UV protection and, for those who have to work outside, don’t overdo it.
“People who do have to work outside keep in mind to take breaks where you can, do the shade, rehydrate using water (and drink) less alcohol.
The City of Charlottetown is taking precautions for its Canada Day festivities at Victoria Park.
The Canadian Cancer Society will have a sunscreen application tent at the park from noon to 7 p.m. The city’s water wagon will be on site with fresh free water available. People are encouraged to bring a refillable water bottle and fill it regularly to stay hydrated throughout the day.
The city is also recommending people take a walk through the trails and woods at the park to
avoid direct sunlight. Also, the park’s pool and
splash pad will be open until 5 p.m. on Canada Day.
Alanna Green, prevention and safety co-ordinator with the Canadian Red Cross, said she can’t emphasize the importance of having enough water for those who will be out on the long weekend.
“It’s going to be a very hot weekend by the looks of things so keep hydrated in those sticky situations,’’ Green said.