Canada Faces First Heat Wave of 2026; Experts Advise on Staying Cool

As Canada grapples with its first significant heat wave of 2026, experts are offering crucial advice on how to stay safe and comfortable. A "heat dome," characterized by a large area of high atmospheric pressure trapping heat and humidity, has settled over various parts of the country, leading to dangerous temperatures.

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Once these heat waves are here, we need ways of protecting ourselves, the human body gets stressed in temperatures at these levels, especially people who are already vulnerable.

Ryan Ness, director of Adaptation at the Canadian Climate Institute, stressed the importance of protective measures, particularly for vulnerable individuals. "Once these heat waves are here, we need ways of protecting ourselves, the human body gets stressed in temperatures at these levels, especially people who are already vulnerable," he stated. Health Canada identifies older adults, infants, young children, those with chronic illnesses, individuals on certain medications, and outdoor workers as particularly at risk.

Meteorologist Peter Quinlan of Global News recommended timing outdoor activities carefully. "The best times [to get outside] are early in the morning because that’s before the sun’s had time to heat up the ground and warm things up out there," he said. Late evenings are also an option, though less practical for many activities. Quinlan also warned about heat stroke, describing it as a severe heat-related illness where the body overheats and loses its ability to regulate core temperature, potentially reaching 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).

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The best times [to get outside] are early in the morning because that’s before the sun’s had time to heat up the ground and warm things up out there.

Environment Canada advises calling emergency services immediately if someone shows signs of heat stroke, which can include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine, and intense fatigue. While waiting for help, the person should be moved to a cool place, given water, have excess clothing removed, and receive cold compresses or ice packs. Quinlan cautioned against using fever-reducing medications, as they can create a false sense of cooling. For those planning to attend Canada Day or FIFA World Cup events, caution is advised, especially in crowded venues, and checking stadium protocols for hydration is recommended.

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It’s when the body overheats and it loses its ability to keep its core temperature as cool as it should be to sustain life, so it’s any time we see that temperature of the body gets up to about 40 degrees or higher.