Markham Issues Heat Warning for August 4 and 5

Post date: Aug 04, 2016 11:51:11 PM

Markham has issued a heat warning due to the local forecast indicating temperatures above 30 Celsius with a high humidex on Thursday, August 4 and Friday, August 5, 2016. It is important to take precautions to avoid suffering heat-related illnesses.

Local Forecast

Thursday, August 4

Sunny. High 31. Humidex 38.

Night - Clear. Low 21.

Friday, August 5

A mix of sun and cloud with 40 percent chance of showers. High 31.

Night - Cloudy periods with 40 percent chance of showers. Low 17.

Markham recommends the following based on Health Canada guidelines:

    • Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, to decrease your risk of dehydration.

    • Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric.

    • Keep people and pets in your care out of parked vehicles and direct sunlight.

    • Spend a few hours in a cool place - a tree-shaded area, swimming facility or an air-conditioned building such as a shopping mall, grocery store, place of worship or public library.

    • Take cool showers or baths.

    • Prepare meals that don't need to be cooked in your oven.

    • Block sunlight by opening awnings, and closing curtains and blinds during the day.

    • Avoid sun exposure - shade yourself by wearing a wide-brimmed, breathable hat or using an umbrella.

    • If you are taking medication or have an existing health condition, ask your doctor or pharmacist if heat exposure increases your health risk and follow their advice.

    • If you have an air conditioner with a thermostat, keep it set to somewhere between 22ºC (72ºF) and 26ºC (79ºF), which will reduce your energy costs and provide you with needed relief.

    • If you have a window air conditioner, cool only one room where you can go for heat relief.

    • Frequently visit friends, neighbours, and elderly family members, especially those who are chronically ill, to make sure they are cool and hydrated.

    • Reschedule or plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day.

Cooling Centres Available at Community Centres and Libraries

    • Angus Glen Community Centre & Library, 3990 Major Mackenzie Drive East

    • Armadale Community Centre & Library, 2401 Denison Street

    • Cornell Community Centre & Library, 3201 Bur Oak Avenue

    • Milliken Mills Community Centre & Library, 7600 Kennedy Road

    • Thornhill Community Centre & Library, 7755 Bayview Avenue

    • Centennial Community Centre & Library, 8600 McCowan Road

    • Markham Village Library, 6031 Hwy 7

    • Unionville Library, 15 Library Lane

Learn more about emergency preparedness.