July 24 2024 – Saskatoon Weather Report: Heat and Smoke Alerts

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Weather - Heat Warning

Current Weather in Saskatoon

Saskatoon is currently experiencing a significant weather event with high temperatures and poor air quality due to wildfire smoke. The temperature is expected to reach a high of 32°C today, with a low of 17°C tonight. Winds are light, coming from the north-northeast at 10 km/h. The heat warning continues.

Special Advisory – Air Quality

Wildfire smoke is causing very poor air quality and reduced visibility. Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour.

The combination of heat and very poor air quality in smoke will increase the risk to your health. The fine particles in wildfire smoke pose the main health risk. As smoke levels increase, health risks increase.

People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke include seniors, pregnant women and pregnant people, people who smoke, infants and young children, people who work outdoors, people involved in strenuous outdoor exercise and people with an existing illness or chronic health condition.

Those who are more likely to be impacted should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors or seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms. Listen to your body and if you experience symptoms, consider reducing or stopping strenuous outdoor activities.

Symptoms can include milder and more common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, as well as serious but less common symptoms such as chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance. Limit time outdoors.

When indoors, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible. When there is an extreme heat event occurring with poor air quality, prioritize keeping cool. Always seek out and follow health guidance from local authorities. Protect your indoor air from wildfire smoke.

Actions can include using a clean, good quality air filter in your ventilation system and/or a certified portable air purifier that can filter fine particles. When spending time outdoors, a well-constructed, well-fitting and properly worn respirator type mask (such as a NIOSH-certified N95 or equivalent respirator) can reduce your exposure to the fine particles in the smoke.

Even though exposure may be reduced, there can still be risks to health. Check in on others who are in your care or live nearby who may be more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke. Take care of your mental health.

Learn more at canada.ca/wildfire-smoke. Please call HealthLine 811 for advice on health risks, symptoms and precautions associated with air quality.

Detailed Forecast

Today: The temperature will peak at 32°C under clear skies. However, the air quality is very poor due to smoke from wildfires. The smoke will cause reduced visibility and potential health risks.

Tonight: Expect the temperature to drop to 17°C. The skies will remain clear, but the smoke will persist, maintaining poor air quality.

Tomorrow: The high will be around 30°C with continued clear skies. The smoke will still affect air quality and visibility.

Thursday: Temperatures will reach a high of 28°C with a mix of sun and cloud. Overnight, expect the temperature to fall to around 16°C.

Historical Weather Data

Historically, Saskatoon has seen a record high of 36.7°C on this date in 1959, while the lowest recorded temperature was 2.8°C in 1911.

Health and Safety Alerts

Saskatoon is under a heat warning and a special air quality statement. Residents are advised to avoid strenuous outdoor activities, stay hydrated, and remain in air-conditioned environments when possible. The fine particles in the smoke pose significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as seniors, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions.

Wardrobe Suggestions

Given the high temperatures and smoky conditions, lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. Use an N95 mask if you must be outdoors to reduce smoke inhalation. Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen are also advisable to protect against the high UV levels.

Fun Weather Fact

Did you know? Saskatoon, known for its cold winters, also experiences significant temperature swings in summer, often reaching over 30°C, which can lead to intense heat warnings like the current one.

Stay safe and hydrated, Saskatoon!

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