Heat warnings in effect for parts of northwestern Ontario

Heat warnings in effect for parts of northwestern Ontario

Daytime highs of around 30 C expected: Environment Canada

Environment Canada has issued warnings for parts of northwestern Ontario over what the weather agency calls the "first heat event of the season."

Yellow heat warnings have been put into effect for the Dryden, Vermilion Bay, Ear Falls, Fort Frances, Rainy River, Ignace, Kenora, Pikangikum, Red Lake, Deer Lake, and Sioux Lookout areas.

The two-day heat event is expected to begin Friday afternoon, and bring daytime highs of 29 C to 32 C, with overnight lows of 18 C.

"The heat event may continue into Sunday for some regions, however there is still uncertainty Saturday night with the overnight low temperatures," Environment Canada said.

People in the affected areas are advised to limit direct exposure to the sun and heat, and wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.

Any outdoor activities should be scheduled for the coolest parts of the day, drink plenty of water, and turn on air conditioning or a fan to keep living spaces cool (and if the living space is too hot, move to a cooler public place, like a cooling centre, community centre, or library.)

"Never leave people, especially children, or pets inside a parked vehicle," Environment Canada said. "Check the vehicle before locking to make sure no one is left behind."