Toronto (Rajeev Sharma): Environment Canada has issued heat warnings for large swathes of the country today, spanning parts of Atlantic Canada, Quebec, and Ontario, as blistering temperatures combine with stifling humidity.
The agency also released numerous air quality advisories for several provinces due to thick wildfire smoke drifting across parts of Alberta, Yukon, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec, and Ontario.
In Ontario, hot and humid conditions are forecast to persist through much of the week, with daytime highs between 29 and 32°C. Quebec’s Greater Montreal region and surrounding areas including Lachute, Lanaudière, Montérégie, and Drummondville could see highs reaching 33°C, with humidex values making it feel closer to 40°C.
Atlantic provinces are also in the heat’s grip. Central and northeastern Newfoundland, including Clarenville and the Bonavista Peninsula, are expected to hit 32°C, with humidex readings as high as 37. Norman Bay and Lodge Bay will see temperatures ranging from 27 to 30°C. Nova Scotia’s heat warnings, currently affecting the Annapolis Valley, are forecast to spread to the mainland, with highs potentially soaring to 33°C and feeling like 37°C with humidity.
Meanwhile, wildfire smoke continues to blanket parts of eastern Alberta and other regions nationwide. Shifting northerly winds are steering more smoke into central Saskatchewan, while Ontario faces lingering poor air quality and reduced visibility into Tuesday.
Environment Canada has urged vulnerable groups including seniors, pregnant women, children, those with chronic illnesses, and people working outdoors to avoid strenuous activities and seek medical care if symptoms arise.
