Environment Canada maintains an orange-level heat warning for Ottawa and the surrounding area, with no relief from record-setting heat expected on Thursday. Maximum temperatures are forecast to reach 35 degrees Celsius, with humidex values making it feel like 46 degrees. The agency warns that minimum temperatures of 21 to 25 degrees Celsius will provide little relief overnight.
Current Conditions and Forecast
As of 6 a.m. Thursday, the temperature felt like 30 degrees with the humidex in Ottawa. The forecast calls for a mix of sun and cloud, a 40 per cent chance of showers early morning and afternoon, and a risk of thunderstorms. The UV index is rated 9, or very high. The evening is expected to be partly cloudy with a 40 per cent chance of showers and a thunderstorm risk, clearing overnight with a low of 22 degrees Celsius.
Friday will see sunny conditions in the morning, then a mix of sun and cloud with a 40 per cent chance of showers and thunderstorm risk, high of 33 degrees Celsius and humidex of 41. Saturday brings a 30 per cent chance of showers and a high of 30 degrees Celsius, while Sunday and Monday are forecast to be a mix of sun and cloud with highs around 29 degrees Celsius.
Record Rainfall Preceded the Heat
The heat warning follows record-breaking rainfall that caused widespread disruption on Canada Day. Almost 120 millimetres of rain was recorded at the Ottawa airport, flooding streets and basements, and knocking out power to tens of thousands of residents. The storms forced cancellation of Canada Day evening shows and fireworks.
Environment Canada’s orange-level warning indicates conditions likely to cause significant damage, disruption, or health impacts. The agency advises residents to limit exposure to the sun and heat, wear lightweight and light-coloured clothing, close blinds and shades, open windows if it is cooler outside, turn on air conditioning and fans, move to cooler areas of their living space, and go to cool public places like pools, cooling centres, community centres, or libraries if needed. Residents are also urged to drink water before feeling thirsty to replace fluids.
