The City of Edmonton activated its extreme heat weather response at 9 a.m. on Wednesday. The response aims to help vulnerable people during the hot conditions expected this week. This is activated when daytime temperatures are forecast to reach 29 C or higher for at least three days in a row. During extreme heat, helping people avoid dehydration by providing access to drinking water and cool places to rest is essential to the response, according to the city. Potable water is available 24/7 at 29 water stations attached to fire hydrants across the city. A full list can be found here. Libraries, pools and recreation centres are open for anyone needing relief from the heat. People can find free bottled water and N95 masks at facilities throughout the summer. Peace officers will also be carrying water bottles to hand out to anyone in need. Edmontonians are asked to help by checking on older family members, friends and neighbours. If you’re concerned about someone outside in the heat, call 211 and press 3 for the Crisis Diversion team or call 911 if it’s an emergency. Based on updated forecasts, the current poor air quality activation is also extended to Thursday at 9 a.m. People could potentially get alerts for any response changes as weather conditions change. The heat weather response is expected to end this Saturday at the same time. The city says it may be extended if the heat continues.
