US/Canada: Heatwave across northeast US and eastern Canada July 2-5

Event

A heatwave is forecast to affect much of the northeastern US and eastern Canada from Monday, July 2, through Thursday, July 5, with heat index readings forecast to approach or exceed 38°C (100°F) in major American cities including New York City, Hartford (Connecticut), Philadelphia, and Washington, DC. Some 60 million people are expected to feel the high temperatures in the American Northeast in the coming days, including during the US Independence Day holiday, observed July 4.

As of Monday, the US-based National Weather Service has issued excessive heat warnings and heat advisories from North Carolina to Maine. Canadian meteorological authorities have also issued heat warnings for parts of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, and southern Québec as of Monday. Additionally, high temperatures are forecast to affect much of the southern and midwestern US in the coming days.

Context

These high temperatures could be hazardous to health, particularly for the elderly, young children, and people suffering from chronic illnesses such as cardiac issues, hypertension, and diabetes. Symptoms of heatstroke include high fever, hot, red, dry skin, headache, nausea, drowsiness, intense thirst, confusion, convulsions, and loss of consciousness.

Independence Day is a national public holiday in the US and celebrates the country's independence from Britain in 1776.

Advice

Individuals in affected areas are advised to keep abreast of local weather forecasts, avoid all strenuous outdoor activity, remain indoors as much as possible between noon and 16:00 when temperatures tend to peak, to remain well hydrated (with sugar-free, non-alcoholic beverages), and to wear loose, light-colored clothing. Do not hesitate to seek medical attention if displaying symptoms of heatstroke.