Special weather statement and heat warning in effect for Golden Horseshoe Area

Residents in the Golden Horseshoe Area are being warned to prepare for high heat over the next three days and thunderstorms.

Environment Canada says a special weather statement is in effect and a heat warning has been issued for Hamilton, Halton, Niagara, and surrounding areas.

The weather agency says daytime temperatures will reach the high twenties to low thirties Wednesday and Thursday. These high temperatures will combine with high humidity to result in humidex values near 40 each day. Friday will also see high temps that could reach the upper twenties with humidex values again approaching 40 before cooler and less humid air arrives.

The evenings will provide little relief from the heat with temperatures staying above 20 C.

Hot and humid air can also bring deteriorating air quality and can cause the Air Quality Health Index to approach the high-risk category.

The risks are greater for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, and people working or exercising outdoors.

Residents should drink plenty of water even before they feel thirsty and stay in a cool place.

Environment Canada suggests scheduling outdoor activities during the coolest parts of the day to reduce your heat risk.

“Seek a cool place such as a tree-shaded area, swimming pool, shower or bath, or air-conditioned spot like a public building,” states the weather agency’s website.

There will also be scattered thunderstorms moving eastward across the area early Wednesday morning and will contain very frequent lightning.

Heavy downpours may produce 20 to 40 mm of rain in an hour.

Strong wind gusts up to 70 or 80 km/h will sweep across the region and local power outages are also possible.

Motorists should be prepared for sudden very low visibility in heavy downpours, and sudden ponding of water on poorly drained sections of highways.