Heat advisory in effect for Hamilton

(Update)

If anyone thought summer was over already, Tuesday’s temperatures prove there’s still some gas left in the tank. With the heat and humidity it felt like mid July. But fall is only two weeks away. Mia Gordon joins us live to tell us how people were dealing with the heat after a couple of weeks of cooler weather.

Public health officials issued a heat advisory for Hamilton, Halton, Toronto, and other communities. I mean, this time last year, the temperature was only 19.8 degrees. People were finding all different kind of ways to beat the heat. But as it turns out they were pretty happy to have some more summer days.

It may be September, but Tuesday was one of the hottest days of the whole summer.

Neha Arora had a problem to solve: “It was a dilemma; should I turn the air conditioning off should I keep it on you don’t know what to expect.”

Nathan Mallia was enjoying the heat: “This is wild. I mean, this is September and hey no complaints. I mean our summer did start a little late so we are just making up for it.”

Jackets were off. And iced drinks were on hand as people escape to the shade.

Ashley Gagne had a plan to stay cool over the noon hour: “For my lunch hour, I am going to spend the time at Gore Park with a nice breeze and lots of shade.”

Neha added: “When it gets a little warmer, we will head to the mall and be inside and not stay outside too long.”

Those who had to stay outside for work, like this construction worker, made sure water was nearby: “Lots of fluid, try and stay in shade as much as we can.”

People told me they are trying to beat the heat by heading in doors to places like Jackson Square where there is air conditioning. But they also told me they are happy to get these few hot days in before the winter rolls around.

“I am actually really enjoying the heat for today because winter is coming up shortly and its going to be real cold for a long time so I don’t mind this heat for today” said Ashley.

“I could have a hot day everyday.” “Before you know, we will have to shovel snow.”

It seems people would rather find ways to cool off then bundle up, which is just a few months away.

The heat advisory remains in effect Wednesday. Temperatures will be a little cooler, reaching a high of 29. Public health officials recommend not staying outside for too long, making sure you stay hydrated, and also dress the part. They also want to remind everyone that cars get very hot so do not leave pets, children, seniors or the physically or mentally challenged inside. But there is some relief around the corner. Weather will be cooling down on Thursday.

Public health officials in Hamilton, Halton, Toronto and several other communities have issued heat advisories for Tuesday, as temperatures are expected to climb to close to record levels for this time of year.

Environment Canada has issued a humidex advisory.

The forecast calls for a high of 33 degrees, but with the humidity it will feel like 40 degrees or hotter. Temperatures are expected to reach about 29 degrees Wednesday, before cooling down on Thursday.

Health officials suggest spending part of the day in cool places, drink plenty of water, and avoid leaving children or animals in hot cars.

The city of Hamilton has reopened an additional 28 splash pads to help people cope with the heat. They will remain open from 10am until 8pm.

A full list of the splash pads can be found on the city’s website at hamilton.ca/hottopics/splashpads.htm.