Heatwave forecast for metro Montreal - warnings issued

Area beaches, such a the newly opened Verdun location shown above, will be extremely busy this week as temperatures soar into the 30s. (Global)

A very warm and humid air mass has prompted heat warnings for metro Montreal as well as the Ottawa Valley and eastern Ontario. High pressure will dominate the weather for the balance of the week, with sunny, hazy and humid days expected, along with very warm nights. High temperatures across the region will range from the middle 30s in urban areas to the low 30s (90-95F) away from the city. Overnight lows are forecast to be near 20C (68F). Humidex values will approach 40C, (104F), especially by Friday when the high is forecast to be 34C (94F) in Montreal. New records however will be hard to come by, as the heat will not be nearly as intense as that observed in July 2018. The only exception could come on Friday, with a forecast high of 34C easily beating out the record for the date of 30.2C set in 2016.

Environment and Climate Change Canada recommends that you protect yourself from the excessive heat by drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water per day, as well as spending several hours in air conditioned or cool places. Try to limit outdoor physical activities, especially during the daylight hours. As always, check on your elderly neighbours, love ones or those living alone. During the July 2018 heatwave, over 65 deaths were reported in Montreal alone. According to Montreal Mayor Valerie Plante, the city is ready this year to extend hours for pools, libraries, community centres and homeless shelters as needed. Workers will also be checking on residents and handing out water bottles to the homeless in an attempt to encourage citizens to stay cool and hydrated. Authorities also remind you the obvious, never leave your child or pet unattended in a hot car. In 30 degree plus weather, injury or even death can occur quickly.

The heat is forecast to ease slightly on Saturday, along with the risk for showers and thunderstorms. This heatwave comes during what has been to date a rather cool year. The first 6 months of 2019 have featured below normal temperatures in Montreal. The average high in June of 18.3C, was 0.3C below normal. The last month to have above normal temperatures in Montreal was back in September 2018. Montreal recorded 21 days over 30C in 2018, but only one day so far in 2019.