The first heat wave of 2022 was particularly early, hitting many areas of southern Quebec in mid-May. This situation is exceptional, insofar as there are generally very few heat waves in May. Since data collection began in 1942, Montreal has only observed five, including the 2022 episode.
While the heat had recently lost a lot of feathers, giving way to cooler air for most of June, it is therefore regaining its rights this weekend. The culprit: an atmospheric ridge favoring the entry of heat from the southern United States into Quebec territory.
The highest temperature of the year…yet
The result of this situation is overwhelming heat. The first 30°C in June were recorded in Montreal at the start of the afternoon – and everything indicates that the numbers on the thermometer will continue to climb over the next few hours. Other sectors in southern Quebec could also follow suit.
On average, 30°C hits nearly three days during the month of June in Montreal. So far, June 2022 has been particularly rickety, especially compared to previous years. In 2020, no less than eight days have concluded with such mercury.
Stuffy Humidex
A Humidex of 40 and above is expected in some places, such as Montreal. The degree of discomfort will therefore be overwhelming and effort should be spared.
At the time of this writing, heat warnings were even issued for the metropolitan region (including the Vaudreuil-Soulanges sector), Centre-du-Québec and the Richelieu Valley.
Some measures to take in case of sweltering heat
- Get enough hydration
- Refresh yourself regularly
- Reduce physical exertion as much as possible
- Wear light clothes
- Close windows and curtains during the hottest hours of the day