Heat warning for Windsor-Essex, thunderstorms forecast for Essex County, Chatham-Kent and Sarnia
Some areas could see multiple rounds of thunderstorms, the weather office said
Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued at heat warning for Windsor-Essex and a special weather statement forecasting thunderstorms and heavy rains for Essex County, Chatham-Kent and Sarnia.
Some locations could see multiple rounds of thunderstorms throughout the day Thursday and into Thursday evening, the weather office said.
It's calling for local rainfall amounts of 40 to 60 millimetres, and warned that heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads.
Localized flooding in low-lying areas is also possible.
The agency warns that heavy rainfall combined with hail, wind and lightning will make outdoor activities unsafe.
It also urged people to stay indoors during thunder and lightning.
The heat event in Windsor-Essex began Thursday afternoon and is expected to end Friday night, Environment and Climate Change Canada said.
It's forecasting daytime highs of 31 to 33 C and humidex values of 42 to 44.
Overnight lows of 18 to 21 C will provide little relief from the heat.
The weather office is urging people to check on older adults, those living alone and other people at risk from extreme heat multiple times a day.
It advises people to monitor themselves and others for early signs of heat exhaustion, including headaches, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine and intense fatigue.
It also urges people to call 911 if they or someone around them is showing signs of heat stroke, which can include red and hot skin, dizziness, nausea, confusion and changes in consciousness.
While waiting for medical attention, people should try to cool affected individuals by moving them to a cool place, removing extra clothing and applying cold water or ice packs around the body, the weather office said.
It added that people should drink water often and before they feel thirsty, close blinds or shades and open windows if outside is cooler than inside.
They should also turn on air conditioning, use a fan or move to a cooler area of their living spaces.
If their living space is hot, they should move to a cool public space such as a cooling centre, community centre, library or shaded park.
In addition, the weather office is advising people to plan and schedule outdoor activities during the coolest parts of the day, limit direct exposure to the sun and heat, wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat, never leave people, especially children, or pets inside a parked vehicle and check the vehicle before locking it to make sure no one is left behind.