Support from northerners like you keeps our journalism alive. Sign up here.

Heat warning extended for Beaufort Delta, Sahtu communities

A roadsign along the Dempster Highway. Oksanaphoto/Dreamstime
A roadsign along the Dempster Highway. Oksanaphoto/Dreamstime

Environment Canada has extended the heat warning issued over the weekend for some Beaufort Delta and Sahtu communities as temperatures are expected to reach at least 29 degrees Celsius over the next few days.

The high temperatures forecasted on Saturday are now expected to last until at least this Friday.

The warning covers Aklavik, Fort Good Hope, Inuvik, Norman Wells, Tulita, Fort McPherson, and Tsiigehtchic.

The territorial health department said exposure to extreme heat can cause heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke. Symptoms of heat illness can include dizziness or fainting, nausea or vomiting, headaches, rapid breathing, extreme thirst, and decreased urination. People who feel sick due to the heat should seek medical attention.

Advertisement.

Advertisement.

Young children, pregnant people, seniors, people with chronic illnesses, and people who spend much of their time outdoors are at an increased risk of heat illnesses.

The government suggests people wear loose fitting or light weight clothing, stay hydrated, visit buildings with air conditioning or use fans, and close curtains and windows during the hottest times of the day to reduce their risk of heat exposure.

“During heat waves, residents, communities, and service providers should check in at least twice per day on those who are at highest risk of heat illness, especially the elderly and those who are homeless or socially isolated,” read the health department’s press release.

Hot and dry conditions have also put both regions under extreme fire warnings, and fire danger is expected to remain high throughout the week.