Music fans heading for the latest
Bluesfest
extravaganza
should start planning their cool-off strategies
Environment Canada has issued a notice that they expect “a prolonged period of near heat warning levels” beginning Friday and possibly lasting until about Thursday.
The agency is looking at daytime highs of 29 C-32 C, bumping up to a “feels like” level of 35-40, when the humidex is factored in.
Evenings aren’t expected to offer much relief, with overnight lows expected to be 19 C-23 C.
In fact, Environment Canada is saying Saturday, the popular show’s first full day, will be the hottest evening in more ways than one.
At the first night of Bluesfest on Thursday, security could be seen spraying fans near the stage with water to help keep them cool.
“The temperatures and humidex will meet or be extremely close to heat warning criteria, with the hottest day being Saturday,” Environment Canada said in a social media release.
They say a shift in the weather pattern on Thursday will likely end the multi-day period of heat and humidity.
As usual, Environment Canada has a
list of precautionary measures
to alleviate the heat conditions.
Among the measures:
“Watch for the
early signs
of heat exhaustion in yourself and others. Signs may include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine and intense fatigue. Stop your activity and drink water.”
“Heat stroke is a medical emergency! Call 911 or your emergency health provider (at the first signs of) heat stroke, which can include red and hot skin, dizziness, nausea, confusion and change in consciousness.
“While you wait for medical attention, try to cool the person by moving them to a cool place, removing extra clothing, and applying cold water or ice packs around the body.”
Drink plenty of water, even when you’re not really thirsty.
Close blinds or shades and open windows if the outside is cooler than inside.
“If your living space is hot, move to a cool public space such as a cooling centre, community centre, library or shaded park.”
“Never leave people, especially children, or pets inside a parked vehicle.”
