Heat warning
Environment Canada has issued a yellow heat warning for Chatham-Kent, with the season’s first significant heat event expected to begin Monday afternoon and continue through Tuesday night.
Daytime highs are forecast to reach 30°C to 32°C, with humidex values between 36°C and 38°C, while overnight temperatures will remain near 20°C.
Officials are urging residents to take precautions against heat-related illness by staying hydrated, limiting outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, checking on vulnerable people, and never leaving children or pets in parked vehicles.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion can include headache, dizziness, nausea and fatigue, while heat stroke is considered a medical emergency requiring immediate medical attention.
From the Municipality of Chatham-Kent:
A heat warning has been issued for Chatham-Kent, with Environment Canada forecasting high temperatures and humid conditions beginning Monday afternoon and continuing through Tuesday.
Daytime highs are expected to reach between 30 and 32 C, with overnight lows near 20 C. Humidex values are forecast to climb into the high 30s.
Municipal officials are warning residents that prolonged exposure to heat and humidity can lead to serious health risks, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
“Symptoms of heat-related illness may include: rapid breathing, dizziness or fainting, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, extreme thirst and decreased urination with unusually dark yellow urine,” the municipality said in a release issued Monday.
Officials advised anyone experiencing symptoms to move to a shaded or air-conditioned space, drink fluids and rest, while contacting a health-care provider, friend or family member if needed.
Heat stroke is considered a medical emergency.
“Call 911 immediately if you are caring for someone who has a high body temperature, is unconscious, confused or has stopped sweating,” the release said.
The municipality noted that heat-related illness can affect anyone, including older adults, young children, people with chronic illnesses and healthy individuals participating in strenuous activities without proper precautions.
Officials also warned that homes without air conditioning can become dangerous during extended heat events, particularly when overnight temperatures remain elevated and do not allow indoor spaces to cool.
Municipal centres and library branches will be available as cooling spaces for residents seeking relief from the heat when facilities reopen Tuesday.
Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day and check regularly on neighbours, friends and family members who may be vulnerable to extreme heat.
The municipality also noted that people experiencing homelessness or lacking access to shelter, water or food are particularly vulnerable during extreme heat events. Support is available through the Homeless Response Line at 519-354-6628, which operates 24 hours a day.
Today – May 18, 2026
Sunny. Becoming a mix of sun and cloud this afternoon. Wind becoming southwest 20 km/h gusting to 50 this morning then south 40 gusting to 60 this afternoon. High 31. Humidex 37. UV index 9 or very high.
Tonight
Cloudy with 40 percent chance of showers and risk of a thunderstorm. Wind south 40 km/h gusting to 60 becoming light this evening. Wind becoming southwest 20 gusting to 40 late this evening. Low 18.
Tue, 19 May – A mix of sun and cloud. Becoming cloudy in the afternoon with a few showers. Risk of a thunderstorm in the afternoon. Wind becoming southwest 40 km/h gusting to 60 late in the morning. High 31. Humidex 35. UV index 9 or very high. Night – Cloudy with 60 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms. Low 11.
Wed, 20 May – A mix of sun and cloud with 30 percent chance of showers. High 17. Night – Clear. Low plus 4.
Thu, 21 May – Sunny. High 17. Night – Cloudy periods. Low 7.
Fri, 22 May – Cloudy. High 17. Night – Cloudy with 40 percent chance of showers. Low 12.
Sat, 23 May – Cloudy with 40 percent chance of showers. High 18. Night – Cloudy. Low 13.
Sun, 24 May – Cloudy with 60 percent chance of showers. High 18.
