A scorching heat dome parked over Ontario and Quebec is causing weather chaos across Canada. Environment Canada meteorologist Julien Pellerin explains that the intense heat in the east is triggering below-normal temperatures and unusual weather patterns in other regions, including warnings of wet snow and heavy rain in the West.
Extreme Heat Grips Ontario and Quebec
The most dangerous temperatures stretch from southwestern Ontario towards North Bay, Sudbury, and Timmins, and in Quebec, from Montreal to Shawinigan up to Abitibi. Residents are bracing for daytime highs exceeding 30°C, with the humidex potentially pushing the feels-like temperature to a sweltering 40 to 45°C. Pellerin anticipates peak heat on Monday and Tuesday, but assures relief by Wednesday as air masses transition across the country.
Toronto has already torched heat records, hitting 36°C on June 23rd, making it the hottest June 23rd since 1983! Other cities like Windsor, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Ottawa also face the risk of breaking temperature records. Experts note that this heat dome is particularly challenging following a cooler-than-average spring, as people are not yet acclimatized to such extreme heat and humidity.
Power Outages Add to the Heatwave Misery
Adding to the woes, thousands in central and eastern Ontario are grappling with power outages following severe weekend thunderstorms. Hydro One crews are working to restore power, but some customers may remain without electricity until Tuesday. Cooling centers have opened across Toronto and other municipalities to help residents escape the heat.
The heat dome's ripple effects extend beyond Ontario and Quebec. British Columbia is bracing for heavy showers, and higher elevations may even see snow. Stay tuned for updates as Canada navigates this period of extreme weather!