Environment Canada issues heat warning for the region

Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for Ottawa and Gatineau as the region enters possible record-breaking temperatures over the next few days.

The federal agency said in a notice the “two-day heat event” is expected to begin Thursday and stretch into Friday.

“Daytime high temperatures are expected to be near 30 degrees Celsius (Wednesday) through Friday. Overnight low temperatures (Wednesday) are expected to be near 15 degrees Celsius, which is below heat-warning criteria.

“Overnight temperatures Thursday night are expected to be in the high teens, providing little relief from the heat,” the advisory said.

The advisory says cooler temperatures are expected to return on Saturday.

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

Residents are advised to drink plenty of water even before you feel thirsty and to stay in a cool place. Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle.

The warming began on Wednesday, with a high of 32 C reached, with humidity that made it feel like 33 C.

Environment and Climate Change Canada lists the highest May 31 temperature in history as 32.6 C in 1944, so the record was definitely within reach.

The average high for May 31 is 21.9 C.

Things are looking even more scorching for today, with a high of 33 C predicted. Humidity is expected to be about 35 per cent, while the UV Index looks like about 8, or very high.

Meanwhile, Ottawa Fire Services declared an open-fire ban across the city.

The weather office says some relief should arrive Friday, as a weather system should bring a 40 per cent chance of showers.