Health Department advises residents to prepare for the first extended heat warning of 2026

Whitby, Ontario – Durham Region Health Department is reporting that Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued the first heat warning of 2026 for north and south Durham Region. A multi-day orange level heat event is expected and anticipated to continue until Friday, and possibly into Saturday. The hottest days are expected to be Wednesday and Thursday, with maximum temperatures of 34 to 36 degrees Celsius.

A yellow level heat warning is issued when weather conditions are short-term and may cause health impacts. Escalation to an orange level heat warning occurs when high temperatures and humidity are likely to cause significant health impacts or if the heat event lasts several days.

Residents are urged to stay alert and take precautions to prevent heat-related illness. Check on neighbours, friends, and older adults—particularly those who are vulnerable, living alone, or without air conditioning—to ensure they remain cool and hydrated.

The Health Department encourages everyone to note the following safety reminders:

• Never leave children, vulnerable adults or pets in parked vehicles; temperatures can exceed 50°C within minutes. Call 911 if you see this happening.
• Extreme heat poses the highest risk to infants, young children, older adults (60+), pregnant individuals, and those with health conditions, limited mobility, or limited resources.
• Individuals on medications should consult a healthcare professional about heat-related risks.

Recognizing heat-related illness is also important; symptoms include dizziness, nausea, headache, swelling, rapid breathing/heartbeat, fatigue, and behavioural changes including sleepiness or temper tantrums in children. Severe cases (heatstroke) involve confusion, loss of consciousness, or a body temperature above 39°C; call 911 for immediate emergency care.

Use the following prevention tips to help beat the heat and stay cool:

• Drink water regularly.
• Stay cool with damp towels, showers, and shaded environments.
• Limit physical activity during peak heat.
• Keep indoor spaces cool (close blinds, seek air-conditioned spaces).
• Plan outdoor activities during cooler times.
• Avoid sun exposure by wearing a wide-brimmed, breathable hat or using an umbrella.
• Never leave people or pets in vehicles.

Throughout the summer, the Health Department will be posting information at durham.ca/heat to inform residents when heat warnings are issued and to share resources such as Heat Hacks for Keeping Cool. For more information, contact the Durham Health Connection Line at 905-668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729.

The Health Department also provides updates through social media on Facebook, X, and Instagram.  The latest information is also available through news and updates from Environment and Climate Change Canada.

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