Heat Alert: Saskatoon Braces for Prolonged Extreme Temperatures

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Current Conditions

As of 4:00 AM CST on Thursday, July 11, 2024, Saskatoon is experiencing a thunderstorm with a temperature of 20.3°C. The dew point is 19.1°C, leading to a relative humidity of 93%. Winds are blowing from the SSE at 13 km/h, and the barometric pressure is 100.6 kPa and falling. The current humidex is at 27, and visibility remains high at 24 km.

Heat Warning in Effect

Extreme Heat Forecast

Southern Saskatchewan, including Saskatoon, is under a prolonged heat warning with temperatures expected to reach 32°C during the day and only dropping to around 16°C at night for the next 3 to 5 days. High humidity levels will persist, with afternoon humidex values soaring to around 35°C. Overnight and morning hours will see relative humidity nearing 100%.

These extreme conditions are anticipated to continue through the week, with a slight cooling trend over the weekend. The combination of high temperatures and humidity poses significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations such as older adults, infants, young children, pregnant individuals, and those with pre-existing health conditions or disabilities.

Health Precautions

To mitigate the risks associated with extreme heat, it’s crucial to:

  • Stay Hydrated: Regularly drink water, even before feeling thirsty, to prevent dehydration.
  • Seek Cool Environments: Find shade, use splash pads, misting stations, or air-conditioned spaces.
  • Limit Sun Exposure: Wear breathable, wide-brimmed hats or use umbrellas for shade.
  • Never Leave Pets or People in Vehicles: Vehicles can become dangerously hot in a short time.
  • Monitor for Heat Illness: Be alert for symptoms such as swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. If symptoms arise, move to a cooler place immediately.
  • Keep Homes Cool: Use air conditioning if possible, block out the sun with curtains or blinds, or relocate to cooler areas like basements or public cooling centers.
  • Regular Breaks for Workers: Ensure workers take frequent breaks in shaded or cool areas.

Today’s Detailed Forecast

Morning to Afternoon

Today’s weather will be predominantly sunny, transitioning to a mix of sun and cloud by the afternoon. There is a risk of thunderstorms late in the afternoon. The high temperature will reach 33°C, with a humidex of 41, making it feel significantly hotter. Winds will shift to the north at 20 km/h later in the afternoon.

Evening

Tonight will be clear, with the north wind becoming light early in the evening. The low will dip to 18°C, providing slight relief from the day’s heat.

Upcoming Days

Friday, July 12

Friday will bring sunny skies with a high of 26°C. The night will remain clear, and the low will drop to 14°C.

Saturday, July 13

Saturday continues the trend of sunny weather with a high of 27°C. The night will have cloudy periods with a low of 15°C.

Sunday, July 14

Sunday will be sunny with a high of 27°C. Overnight, expect cloudy periods with a 30% chance of showers and a low of 13°C.

Historical Weather Trivia

On this date, Saskatoon’s record high temperature was a sweltering 38.0°C, set in 1914. The record low was a cool 5.0°C, recorded in 1965.

What to Wear

Due to the extreme heat and high humidex, it’s best to wear light, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses will help protect against the sun. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen with a high SPF.

Saskatoon Weather Trivia

Did you know? Saskatoon, known as the “City of Bridges,” has a semi-arid climate with extreme temperature variations. Summers can be very hot, while winters can be severely cold, showcasing the city’s dramatic seasonal changes.

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