Warnings of high temperatures have been issued for a significant portion of Ontario and Quebec.
Soaring Temperatures and Heat Warnings in Ontario and Quebec
The summer of 2025 has seen a series of heat warnings in southern Ontario and Quebec, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C and humidex values soaring to 42°C. Environment Canada has issued multiple alerts, warning of the elevated risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
The extreme weather conditions, expected to last for several days, have raised concerns, particularly for older adults and at-risk populations. Daytime highs, combined with overnight lows hovering between 19 to 22°C, provide little relief from the heat.
Heat exhaustion symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine, and intense fatigue. Heat stroke, a more serious condition, may exhibit red and hot skin, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and changes in consciousness. In case of a heat-related emergency, call 911 or your emergency health provider immediately.
To combat the heat, it's essential to drink water frequently, even before thirst sets in. Staying in air-conditioned or cooler places, using fans, and managing indoor temperatures by closing blinds or opening windows if outside air is cooler can also help. It's advisable to avoid strenuous activity outside when possible and to check regularly on elderly or vulnerable persons.
A U.S. company, Lyten, has expressed interest in purchasing Northvolt's battery plant in Quebec, which could contribute to the region's efforts to combat climate change and reduce dependency on fossil fuels. Meanwhile, in a separate incident, a traveller was caught by the CBSA carrying 18 kilos of cocaine in cheese cans.
The heat warnings and extreme temperatures are expected to continue for several days, with occasional relief in northern areas. However, southern Ontario and Quebec face persistently high temperatures into mid-August 2025. Nova Scotia farmers are also facing difficulties due to the hot, dry summer.
[1] Environment Canada [2] Toronto Star [3] CBC News [4] Health Canada [5] Global News
- The elevated temperatures and humidex values have highlighted the connection between weather and health, with Environment Canada warning of the increased risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
- In the context of climate-change, the prolonged heat wave in southern Ontario and Quebec points towards the importance of environmental-science and the need for sustained efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change.
- As the weather continues to soar, it is crucial for everyone, especially older adults and at-risk populations, to be well-informed about the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, as indicated by Health Canada and various news outlets like the Toronto Star, CBC News, and Global News.
