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After a sweltering start to July, southern Manitoba is getting relief from the summer scorch. Environment Canada issued a heat warning earlier this week, with daytime highs soaring into the mid-30s and humidex values pushing it well into uncomfortable territory. As we head into the weekend, Brian Proctor, a meteorologist with Environment Canada, says cooler temperatures are on the horizon, though the reprieve will be short-lived.
"We're through our heat warning, at least for now. Those temperatures started to drop through the night, and we expect to see much cooler weather settling in for the weekend," Proctor explains.
Weekend weather is expected to be relatively mild for this time of year, with daytime highs around 23 degrees and overnight lows dipping to the 12–13 degree range. Those values are below the seasonal average for Portage la Prairie, where July temperatures are typically around 25 during the day.
While the weekend offers a chance to open the windows and enjoy the breeze, Manitobans shouldn’t pack away the sunscreen just yet.
"We will have a gradual change in the weather on Monday with around a 60 per cent chance of showers. Daytime highs in the low to mid-20s before the heat returns on Tuesday," he notes.
By mid-week, temperatures are expected to climb to the low 30s, bringing southern Manitoba right back into hot and potentially hazardous conditions.
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“It's not atypical for us to see temperatures up into the high 20s to mid-30s this time of the year,” he says. “July and into early August are typically the warmest time of the year, and our most active severe weather season as well.”
Early signs of heat stress, such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness, should be taken seriously.
“It's important to limit your exposure to the peak heat of the day. If there are activities that need to be done outside, shift them to the morning or evening hours instead of during the afternoon heat. Be prepared to take action if necessary. Seek shade, go into an air-conditioned space, and drink fluids to stay hydrated," he adds.
With more hot days ahead, Proctor urges residents to be cautious and take steps to protect themselves, their neighbours, and even their pets from heat-related illnesses.
“Be prepared to help your neighbours out if they need assistance,” he continues. “Many people don’t have air conditioning or a place to cool down, so check in, especially with the elderly, and also monitor your pets for excessive heat exposure.”
As summer continues to unfold, southern Manitobans are reminded to plan and stay weather-aware, because while the thermometer might dip for a day or two, the July sun isn’t done with us yet.
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