Environment Canada issued another weather warning for a heat wave to expect to last until late Tuesday, August 11th, while Halton Region echos that with a media release. Here is what we can expect in Oakville, Ontario.
Sunday, August 9th
The temperature is forecast to hit a high of 29 and feel like 38. There is a strong likelihood of thunderstorms later in the day. The winds will be coming out of the west gusting to 35 km. Overnight the temperature drops to the low 20's, but the humid air will make that feel like 30.
Monday, August 10th
The forecast is for sunshine with only a 10 per cent chance of rain. The high is expected to reach 30 and with the humidity it will feel like it is in the high 30's. The wind continues to come out of the west with gusts reaching into the mid-30's. Overnight it will feel like it is in the high 20's.
Tuesday, August 11th
The morning starts off with thunderstorms that last for the day an into the evening. Tuesday's high is expected to reach into the high 20's and feel like the high 30's. The turbulent weather will usher in cooler air early Wednesday morning.
During a heat wave, the hot and humid weather holds onto pollution making it harder to breath. People with breathing issues should restrict their movements.
Beating the Heat
Oakville has 19 splash pads located in parks through out the town which are open from 10 AM to 8 PM. During heat events the town will often leave these facilities operating an hour later.
The Town of Oakville is operating several swimming pools of which 2 are outdoors. Please note that you will need to reserve a spot prior to going in order to maintain physical distancing. You can reserve at active.oakville.ca.
Cooling Centre
The town opens Trafalgar Park Community Centre as a cooling centre, usually from 11 AM to 4 PM. Please note that the you must follow all the safety guidelines as it relates to Ontario Emergency Order. It opens when the region declares a heat alert. All other Community Centres remain closed.
Lake Ontario
Oakville is home to several lake front parks, and they are usually more comfortable due to the cooling affect of Lake Ontario.
Coronation Park (East & West)- lake swimming is an option depending on water quality
Bronte Heritage Waterfont Park
Bronte Beach- lake swimming is an option depending on water quality
South Shell Park - lake swimming is an option depending on water quality
The region monitors water quality at Coronation Park (East & West), Bronte Beach, and South Shell Park. As of Sunday (August 9th) the only location open for swimming is Coronation Park East. You should always check Lake Ontario water quality status issued by the region before swimming which is available at Halton.ca/Recreation-Water-Quality.
Indoor Shopping Centres
Oakville Place is open on Sunday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM and during the week from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
South Oakville Centre is open on Sunday from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM and during the week from 9:30 AM until 9:00 PM.
Please remember that wearing face mask in a public space is mandatory.
Movie theatres have re-opened. With limited seating, you would be advised to purchase your tickets in advance.
Things to remember during a heat wave
Drink plenty of fluids
Don't leave children or pets in an unattended parked car
Exercise during the cooler hours of the day
Keep out of the sun during the hottest hours of the day
Heat illness symptoms:
dizziness/fainting
nausea/vomiting
rapid breathing and heartbeat
extreme thirst
decreased urination with unusually dark urine