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An extended heat warning has been issued for Peterborough, the City of Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland County, and Haliburton County, with temperatures expected to reach up to 31°C and humidex values near 39 from August 9 to August 12.
The Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health, now merged, say overnight lows will stay between 20 and 23°C, offering little relief from the heat. Haliburton County is expected to cool down a day earlier, with the warning ending there on August 11.
Health officials warn that prolonged hot, humid weather increases the risk of heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Vulnerable groups include outdoor workers, elderly people, those with chronic conditions, infants, and people experiencing homelessness.
Symptoms of heat stroke include dizziness, nausea, headache, extreme thirst, and fainting. Anyone showing signs of heat stroke should seek immediate medical help.
To stay safe, residents are advised to:
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Drink plenty of water, even if not thirsty
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Avoid being outdoors during peak heat
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Wear light, loose clothing
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Keep homes cool by closing blinds and avoiding heat-generating appliances
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Use public cooling spaces like libraries, malls, or splash pads if needed
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Never leave people or pets in parked vehicles
Community members are encouraged to check on neighbours, especially those at higher risk, using resources available at peterboroughpublichealth.ca/heatcheckin.
With climate change contributing to more frequent extreme heat events, health officials stress the importance of awareness and preparation. More information and updates are available at hkpr.on.ca/Heat and peterboroughpublichealth.ca/ExtremeHeat.
