Climate Change Canada has affected extreme weather patterns throughout the country, raising urgent warnings from provincial health agencies and meteorologists across the country. With extreme temperatures and increasing air pollution contributing to urgent public health threats, it is critical to act now. This summer—a summer like no other—safety is being left behind across the country.
As climate scientists and meteorologists alike have noted, predicted temperatures were to be at least a few degrees above seasonal averages across the country. This extremely hot summer is the result of a persistent high-pressure system establishing over the Northeast. Accordingly, provinces such as Ontario, British Columbia and, recently, Alberta have released advisories. These alerts help motivate residents to seek relief from the dangers of extreme heat.
In addition to the rising temperatures, the air quality has significantly declined due to wildfires ignited by the dry conditions. Smoke from these fires has enveloped large areas, particularly in western Canada, resulting in hazy skies and unhealthy air levels. Environment Canada has warned the dangerous smoke has deteriorating air quality across the country, telling those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, children, and older adults to stay inside.
Local governments are leading the way in creative and impactful solutions to address the crisis. They’re opening cooling centers and getting out lifesaving info about how to be safe in extreme heat. Officials are reminding people to drink plenty of water, limit strenuous activity outdoors, and watch out for at-risk populations. Fighting the triple threat To help combat the unprecedented stress placed on the power grid, communities are encouraged to lower energy demand during the most extreme heat hours.
Climate change-induced extreme heat and poor air quality are pushing more people into our nation’s hospitals. In their wake, visits for respiratory distress and heat stroke have doubled. Public health advocates urge Americans to continually practice safety measures. They caution that heat-related illnesses can progress rapidly if you fail to identify symptoms and act accordingly.
