Alberta is once again experiencing a heat dome, causing extreme weather conditions and leading to the activation of the City of Edmonton’s extreme weather response.
The heat dome results from a strong ridge of high pressure that traps warm air underneath it, creating a heat wave that lasts several days.
Environment Canada has issued heat warnings for a large area of the province, including Calgary, Athabasca, Grande Prairie, and Peace River.
These warnings are given when there is a high risk of heat-related illnesses like heat stroke or heat exhaustion.
Temperatures will reach around 29 degrees Celsius during the day and remain in the upper 20s to low 30s until early next week.
“Another upper ridge in the jet stream will lead to hot, stable and stagnant conditions for much of Alberta for the near future,” said Global Edmonton chief meteorologist Jesse Beyer.
However, Beyer also mentioned that the high-pressure ridge causing the heat dome is expected to weaken by next Wednesday.
But Calgary may experience some relief from the heat later this week as cloud cover and scattered showers are expected.
“Temperatures will stay above seasonal all the way through to mid-month…Along with this warmth…a risk of thunderstorms extends through nearly every day in our seven-day forecast,” commented Global Calgary chief meteorologist Tiffany Lizee.
In the Lethbridge area, located further south, there will be more clouds, cooler temperatures, and a chance of thundershowers starting on Thursday, according to Paul Dunphy, the weather anchor at Global Calgary.
It is important to take precautions during this heat wave to stay safe and cool. Stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and seek shade or air-conditioned spaces when necessary.
The City of Edmonton’s extreme weather response is in place to provide support and assistance to those in need during this challenging weather period.
