Heat Wave Sweeps Through Winnipeg: Precautions and Forecast

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Winnipeg News

Current Conditions

As of 5:00 AM CDT on Thursday, July 11, 2024, Winnipeg is experiencing mainly clear skies with a temperature of 19.4°C. The dew point is at 16.5°C, contributing to a humidity level of 83%. Winds are blowing from the south at 16 km/h, and the barometric pressure is 101.4 kPa, currently falling. Visibility remains excellent at 24 km.

Heat Warning in Effect

Extreme Heat Forecast

Southern Manitoba, including Winnipeg, is under a heat warning with humidex values expected to reach 40°C today and tomorrow. Daytime highs will soar to 32°C, with overnight lows staying above 16°C, offering little relief from the heat.

An upper-level ridge moving over the area is responsible for these extreme temperatures, which will persist through Friday before slightly easing over the weekend. However, temperatures will remain above seasonal norms into early next week.

Health Precautions

Extreme heat poses significant health risks, particularly to older adults, infants, young children, pregnant individuals, and those with physical or mental health conditions. To combat heat-related illnesses, it’s crucial to:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water regularly, even before feeling thirsty.
  • Find Cool Spots: Seek shaded areas, splash pads, misting stations, or air-conditioned buildings.
  • Limit Sun Exposure: Wear breathable, wide-brimmed hats or use umbrellas for shade.
  • Never Leave Pets or People in Vehicles: The inside of a parked car can become dangerously hot.
  • Monitor for Heat Illness: Look out for symptoms like swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
  • Keep Your Home Cool: Use air conditioning, close curtains or blinds, and use fans to circulate air.

Today’s Detailed Forecast

Morning to Afternoon

Today, expect sunny and hazy conditions with the temperature climbing to a high of 32°C. The humidex will make it feel more like 37°C. Winds will become stronger from the south, reaching 30 km/h with gusts up to 50 km/h. The UV index is very high at 8, so sun protection is essential.

Evening

Tonight will start clear but become partly cloudy overnight with a 30% chance of showers and a risk of thunderstorms. The wind will remain from the south at 30 km/h, gusting to 50 km/h, before calming late in the evening. The low will only drop to 23°C, maintaining the warm conditions.

Upcoming Days

Friday, July 12

Friday will be mainly sunny with a high of 32°C and a humidex of 40. Winds will continue from the south at 20 km/h, gusting to 40 km/h. The UV index will be high at 7. Overnight, expect cloudy skies with a 60% chance of showers and a low of 20°C.

Saturday, July 13

Saturday will be cloudy with a 30% chance of showers and a high of 27°C. The evening will clear up with a low of 17°C.

Sunday, July 14

Sunday brings sunny skies and a high of 28°C. The night will remain clear with a low of 17°C.

Historical Weather Trivia

On this date, Winnipeg’s record high temperature was 37.8°C, set in 1936. The record low was a chilly 5.6°C, recorded in 1895.

What to Wear

Given the extreme heat, wear light, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are advisable for sun protection. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen with a high SPF.

Winnipeg Weather Trivia

Did you know? Winnipeg, known as the “Gateway to the West,” has a continental climate characterized by extreme seasonal temperatures. The city has one of the most distinct temperature ranges in Canada, with very hot summers and extremely cold winters.

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