Heat warning continues for Waterloo Region, Wellington County
If you are feeling hot, hot, hot, you are far from alone.
The mercury started to soar above the already warm summer temperatures Tuesday, prompting a heat warning from Environment Canada for Waterloo Region, Guelph and Wellington County.
Temperatures will soar as high as 32 C with humidex values expected near 40 this week.
It's not going to get much better overnight – the temperature is only supposed to dip to the 20 C Tuesday and 23 C Wednesday.
Drink water, seek out cool spots
Residents should drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, and avoid drinks high in sugar, caffeine, or alcohol, said the Region of Waterloo in a release.
People should take cool showers and baths, play outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day and stay in the shade when possible.
Waterloo Regional Police reminded residents on Twitter not to leave children or pets in parked cars.
The City of Guelph reminded residents that many city facilities and libraries have air conditioning and can offer respite from the heat, and that some local businesses will refill water bottles if asked.
"Look for the Blue W decal on business windows in Guelph – including restaurants, City facilities and businesses – to fill your reusable bottle with healthy, safe municipal tap water, free-of-charge as part of the Blue W program," the city said.
City asks for help to water trees
The City of Kitchener, meanwhile, is asking residents to water any newly planted tree that is either on their property or near it. There are nearly 2,000 new trees in the city.
"Trees recently planted by the City of Kitchener are identified by the green watering bags around their trunks. During normal weather conditions, these bags need to be filled once a week. In dry or drought conditions, the bag needs to be filled twice a week," the statement said.
Anyone willing to water a nearby tree can call 519-741-2345 and a blue ribbon will be tied to the tree's stake, indicating someone has promised to water it.
The Environment Canada forecast said there may be some temporary relief from the heat if showers or thunderstorms move through the area, but cooler air is not expected to arrive until Friday.