Environment Canada issues heat warning for multiple N.W.T. regions

Environment Canada is issuing heat warnings for a number of regions in the N.W.T. as the territory faces its second heat wave this summer.

The warning applies totheAklavikregion, Fort Good Hope region, Inuvikregion, Norman Wells, Tulitaregion and South Delta region including Ft. McPherson and Tsiigehtchic, according to a news release sent late Tuesday afternoon from the territorial government.

Environment Canada says temperatures will be reaching near29 C,with lows near14 Covernightbeginning Tuesday.

This heat wave is expected to persist until Thursday, according to the release.

A heat warning was also issued for Old Crow, Yukon, on Tuesday afternoon.Temperatures reaching 28 C andovernight lows near 13 C are expected for the next twodays.

A warm air mass over the Old Crow area tonight and tomorrow will give elevated daytime and nighttime temperatures, Environment Canada says.

It comes after places across the Northwest Territories, Yukon, and western Canadawere hit with a "heat dome" last month.

EnvironmentCanada says exposure to extreme heat can result inillnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke, withsymptoms such as dizziness or fainting, nausea, vomiting, headaches, rapid breathing, extreme thirst and decreased urination.

People can reduce their risk of getting heat-related illnesses by drinking lots of water and reducing heat exposure by:

• Wearing loose-fitting and lightweight clothing;
• Closing curtains and windows during the hottest hours of the day;
• Using air conditioners or fans;
• and planning to be outside during cooler parts of the day.

Workers and their employers should develop plans to work safely, the release states.

Those who are at higher risk of adverse health impactsinclude young kids,pregnant people,elderly people, thosewith chronic illnesses or on certain medications, and peoplewho spend large amounts of time outdoors.

Residents and communities should check in regularly on those who are high risk, especially the elderly,the release says. It also states that people who arefeeling dizzy or disoriented due to the extreme heat shouldseek medical attention immediately.

More information on the health effects of extreme heat can be found here. Further details on local weather conditions can be found on Environment Canada's website.