Environment Canada is warning of an intense heat wave that will sweep through the south of the province starting Monday, with the mercury potentially rising to 35 degrees Celsius in addition to a humidex value of up to 43.
This heat wave will be produced by a mass of hot air coming from the United States which will rise to Quebec.
“It’s going to be difficult for people to cool off at night” when the minimum temperatures forecast will fluctuate between 22 and 25 degrees Celsius, explains Environment Canada meteorologist Kathleen Mayrand. “And since it’s over two or three days, it can have a cumulative effect at the end of the day.”
Heatwave expected in Montreal
For the Montreal region, the heat will begin to set in on Monday with a forecast maximum of 31 degrees Celsius and humidity values of felt temperature of 38.
But Tuesday is when the temperature is expected to peak, with the mercury expected to reach 35, feeling like 43 degrees Celsius.
The phenomenon is then expected to continue on Wednesday with a maximum of 34 degrees Celsius, and a humidex index of 42.
The metropolitan region will therefore likely be hit by a heatwave, which is defined by minimums of 30 degrees Celsius during the day and 16 degrees at night for three days in a row.
Rushes for air conditioners
Environment Canada therefore calls for limiting physically demanding activities in the heat and favoring shaded areas, particularly for construction workers.
In certain areas of the Montreal metropolitan area, consumers rushed to purchase air conditioners or fans to cope with this new heat wave of the season.
Although outdoor swimming pools normally open towards the end of school, some are already welcoming swimmers, among others in Laval and Montreal.
In the metropolis, all water play facilities are open, as are indoor swimming pools, said Philippe Sabourin, spokesperson for the City of Montreal, in an interview with TVA Nouvelles.
“We are taking the situation seriously. We are asking citizens to prepare, as the City is preparing,” he said.
