With files from Hayden Michaels
Get the cooler stocked and the fans running; it's set to be a scorcher today.
Environment and Climate Change Canada is predicting 31 C for our part of the prairies on Tuesday. If that sounds like it's going to be hot, it's because it will be.
Justin Shelley, a meteorologist for Environment and Climate Change Canada, thinks we may even go hotter than that, potentially breaking a record.
Looking at numbers out of Kindersley, the record high was 31.7 C back in 1988, with the chance to near that number at some point today.
Shelley talked about the unseasonably warm temperatures and how our normal daytime high this time of year is about 19 or 20 degrees. This despite a warm May in 2022.
"So definitely well above normal, but we have seen this sort of heat this early on in recent memory."
This heat is the latest result of a high-pressure ridge dump that set to last for a while longer.
"The warmest part of the air is moving east over Saskatchewan (into today)," said Shelley. "After that, a cold front will come through and drop temperatures back down to near or still slightly above normal."
Folks are reminded to limit their exposure to the heat outside. Folks should take frequent breaks, duck inside, and utilize air conditioning and cooler spaces.
For anyone working outside tomorrow, staying hydrated will be key, and it is encouraged to apply sunscreen to help prevent burns and dry skin.
"Have a way to alter your plans if you notice signs of heat illness in yourself or others," said Shelley. "Some of those signs of heat illness are feeling faint or dizzy, a high body temperature, muscle cramps, that sort of thing."
Sunstroke is a danger for both children and seniors. Folks with kids will want to keep an eye on them, and older folks will need to be sure to monitor how they feel, taking breaks when needed.
People should also take note of some potential smoke issues coming this way.
Thu, Apr 25, 9:30 AM
