Residents of the London area are in for another scorching long weekend.
The impending hot, humid weather has prompted the Middlesex London Health Unit to issue another two-day heat warning.
While Saturday's expected 29 C daytime high is just shy of the heat warning criteria, Sunday and Monday's expected high temperatures of 31 C, coupled with the humidity are enough to trigger it.
The heat warning will come into effect Sunday and will remain in place until early Tuesday, when the temperature is forecast to drop slightly to 25 C.
Health officials are advising people to protect themselves against heat-related illness by taking the following steps:
• Drink plenty of water and natural juices throughout the day, even if you don’t feel very thirsty. Remember to take sips often and not to guzzle your drink. • Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages, coffee and cola. • When possible, avoid spending too much time outdoors. If you must be outside, seek shade as much as possible. Plan outdoor activities in the early morning or evening. • Wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors. • Keep window shades or drapes drawn and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home. • Avoid turning on electric lights in the home. • Take a cool bath or shower periodically or cool down with cool, wet towels. • Wear loose-fitting, light clothing. • Avoid eating heavy meals and using your oven. • Avoid intense or moderately intense physical activity. • Never leave a child or pet in a parked car or sleeping outside in direct sunlight. • Use fans to draw cool air at night, but do not rely on a fan as a primary cooling device during extended periods of excessive heat. • Consult your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of any medications you are taking. • Reduce the use of personal vehicles, stop unnecessary idling; avoid using oil-based paints and glues, pesticides and gas-powered small engines.
Symptoms of heat-related illness include rapid breathing, weakness or fainting, fatigue, headache, and confusion. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should get help from a medical professional immediately.
For a list of city-run cooling centres that will be open during the sweltering weather click here. Those looking for tips to help keep their furry friends cool click here.