It's Going To Feel Like 42 C In Ottawa This Week & More Thunderstorms Are Coming

Keep you air conditioning on, Ottawa! The weather forecast for Ottawa is predicting a hot and humid week, with temperatures feeling as hot as 42 C by Sunday. Before you head out in shorts and a t-shirt though, be aware that even more thunderstorms are on the horizon.

On Thursday, July 2, Environment Canada issued a heat warning for Ottawa, Gatineau and eastern Ontario, alerting locals that hot and humid conditions are heading for the National Capital Region.

The advisory explains that the extra-hot temperatures will stick around until at least Sunday, and probably into next week.

“Hot and humid air can also bring deteriorating air quality and can result in the Air Quality Health Index to approach the high risk category,” the agency added.

On Thursday, temperatures in the city are expected to reach 35 C, with humidex making it feel closer to 38 C.

Through Friday and Saturday, temperatures could feel closer to 40 C with humidex, with this climbing to a scorching 42 C on Sunday. Yikes!

Despite the heat, Ottawans should prepare for some clouds, rain and thunderstorms, too.

Environment Canada says there’s a possible chance of showers and thunderstorms on Thursday afternoon, with another storm expected around midnight.

In response to the heat warning from Environment Canada, Ottawa Public Health shared some advice to help locals beat the heat.

“Some of the usual ways we cool off may not be available this summer because of measures put in place to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus,” the health agency explained.

They suggested taking extra breaks if you’re wearing a face mask, drinking plenty of water, avoiding “heavy” outdoor activities, wearing a hat and sunscreen, and cooling off in an air-conditioned space whenever possible.

If a storm crashes over the capital tonight, it will be the second sound and light show in a week!

Last Sunday, locals were treated to a wild storm followed by a stunning sunset. The scenes were so spectacular that people shared photos and videos of Ottawa’s skies all over social media.

With the soaring temperatures expected to last well into next week, there’s no time like the present to stock up on sunscreen, fill up your water bottle and ramp-up the air conditioning.

Stay hydrated out there, Ottawa!