It is so hot that......

they cancelled the Manitoba Marathon? About an hour after the run started, the decision was made to cancel the event, which boasted about 6,000 participants this year.

A heat warning was issued by Environment Canada late Friday for the weekend and we are certainly seeing why today. The mercury only fell to 21 overnight and as of 10am this morning, it was already 30 degrees. The high later this afternoon is expected to peak at 37 with the humidex around 45.

All of southern Manitoba will see temperatures in the low to mid 30s for a few days, with humidex values reaching into the low 40s on Sunday afternoon. 
 
Areas in the southern Red River Valley are expected to see the hottest temperatures Sunday afternoon reaching into the upper 30s. 
 
Temperatures will remain hot through Monday afternoon, especially in southeastern Manitoba where temperatures will once again reach the mid 30s, with humidex values in the low 40s. 
 
Areas in southwestern Manitoba will ease slightly into the high 20s for Monday afternoon. 
 
The risk of heat related injuries such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke may be elevated due to the cool and rainy spring Manitobans may be acclimatized to.

With an extended period of hot weather, Environment Canada has continued the Heat Warning.

Extreme heat affects everyone.

To reduce the health effects of heat:

- Plan outdoor activities during cooler times of the day and take into account the COVID-19 restrictions.
- Take a cool shower or bath or take a break in a cool location, such as an air-conditioned building or a tree-shaded area.
- Stay out of direct sunlight and wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing and a wide-brimmed hat or shade yourself with an umbrella.
- Drink plenty of water, before you feel thirsty and stay in a cool place. If you must go out, take water with you.
- Keep your house cool. Block the sun out by closing curtains, blinds, and awnings during the day
- Never leave people or pets in a parked vehicle.
- Check on family, friends and neighbours. Check regularly on people living alone, especially older individuals or people with health conditions. Make sure they are cool and drinking water.
- Watch for the effects of heat illness: swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, and the worsening of some health conditions.
- Watch for signs of heat stroke (which may begin with headache, hot skin, dizziness or confusion) and take action immediately.

For more information on heat and your health:
- Visit Manitoba Health at: http://www.manitoba.ca/health/publichealth/environmentalhealth/heat.html.
- Call Health Links - Info Santé at 204-788-8200 or toll-free at 1-888-315-9257.