Weather records set decades ago could fall, spray pads have reopened, and Londoners are being advised to stay hydrated and out of direct sunlight as weekend temperatures climb to 31 C.
Coupled with the humidity, temperatures across southwestern Ontario will be closer to 40 C over the next few days. This second coming of summer has prompted Environment Canada to issue a heat warning and the Middlesex London Health Unit to issue a heat alert for Saturday, Sunday, and Monday.
The extended period of sweltering weather can bring on a number of heat related illnesses. To prevent that, health officials are advising residents to drink plenty of water and natural juices - even if they don't feel thirsty. People are also being advised to avoid spending too much time outside and to limit physical activity.
To keep homes feeling cool, leave the window shades drawn, don't turn on electric lights, and use fans to bring cooler night air inside.
Children and pets should not be left in parked vehicles or sleep in direct sunlight. A toddler died in Toronto Thursday after being left inside of a vehicle.
Signs of heat related illness include rapid breathing, weakness or fainting, headache, and confusion. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should move to a cooler spot, remove excess clothing, and get medical attention.
London has already shattered one heat record heading into the weekend. Thursday's high of 29.3 C broke the record of 28.9 C set on the same date in 1970. There is potential for two more records to fall Saturday and Sunday when Environment Canada expects ther temperature to climb to 31 C.
The record high for September 23 was set in 1959 when it hit 28.3C, while the record of 28.3 C for September 24 was set 47 years ago.
Amid the heat and humidity, the city has decided to reopen two of its spray pads - at the Forks of the Thames and at Gibbons Park. Those will both remain open through the weekend.
Londoners will get some brief relief from the heat when the sun goes down each night. Environment Canada expects temperatures to drop to 17 C overnight Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.