High heat and humidity in Kawartha Lakes and Durham

KAWARTHA LAKES/DURHAM: Recently, the Region of Durham and City of Kawartha Lakes have experienced some intense heat, prompting alerts from local agencies.

On Tuesday, July 4th, the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit (HKPR) announced that Environment Canada was “forecasting hot, humid weather starting July 4th, 2023 and continuing until approximately July 6th, 2023.”

“The HKPR District Health Unit is taking protective action by alerting the public of extreme heat events to prevent and reduce heat-related illnesses and direct community response and outreach to at-risk and priority populations,” a press release from the health unit stated.

A heat warning put in place that day was extended the next day, on Wednesday, July 5th, to run until Friday, July 7th.

“Heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke can be very dangerous, especially to those most vulnerable to health risks including people who work outdoors, people who are unhoused, elderly and some people with disabilities or chronic diseases, people who are pregnant, and children and infants. Monitor yourself and those around you for signs of heat-related illness and seek medical attention if required,” the press release stressed.

A press release from the Township of Scugog on July 4 pointed out these heat events “can also affect air quality.”

“Temperatures are forecasted to reach a maximum of high twenties to low thirties with a humidex of high thirties to low forties,” Scugog’s press release added.

The Township opened cooling stations during the week at the Scugog Community Recreation Centre, Scugog Memorial Public Library, Birdseye Pool and the Splash Pad in Palmer Park.

To avoid heat-related illnesses, the Region of Durham recommends residents “try to reschedule or plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day,” move to a cooler place if you are experiencing heat fatigue, drink “sips of water” and to check in with neighbours and friends to make sure they are okay.