Break out the mini-fans and stock up on ice – it’s going to get extremely hot this week, Manitoba.
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued special weather statements Monday morning for central and southern Manitoba in anticipation of an extended period of heat.
“We’re looking at a long stretch, of five or six days, with temperatures of 30 degrees or above,” said ECCC meteorologist Natalie Hasell.
Daytime temperatures are expected to reach 30 C starting Tuesday, soaring as high as 34 C by Friday and throughout the weekend in some areas of southern Manitoba, Hasell said. Meanwhile, humidex values stay near the mid-30s and could reach nearly 40 C by this weekend.
According to ECCC, heat warnings are likely to be issued later this week due to this prolonged period of extreme heat.
Heat warnings in southern Manitoba are issued when two or more consecutive days of daytime temperatures are expected to reach or exceed a maximum of 32 C, while overnight lows drop to 16 C or higher. Alternatively, warnings can also be issued when humidex values reach or exceed 38 for at least two consecutive days.
Manitoba is not alone. “Most of western Canada is under the influence of high pressure, which is acting like a dome of heat,” said Hasell.
This period of abnormally warm weather in the province is expected to continue into the following Monday, before temperatures finally cool down.
The longer a heat event lasts, the greater the cumulative effects, said Hasell. She recommended people pay closer attention for the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and to never leave people or animals inside unattended vehicles.