If you’re thinking rain is just what Montreal needs to cut through this stifling heat, think again.
The city is under both a heat warning and severe thunderstorm watch Tuesday, with conditions in the afternoon and evening favourable for the development of storms bringing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain.
But the humidity will make it feel between 35 and 40 throughout Tuesday and Wednesday, with relief only expected Wednesday night.
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) says large hail can damage property and cause injury, while strong wind gusts can send loose objects flying, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles.
Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads, ECCC warns, adding water-related activities may be unsafe due to violent and sudden gusts of wind over bodies of water.
Meanwhile, the federal department is advising Montrealers to seek a cool place and drink plenty of water during the heat to decrease the risk of dehydration.
They should also watch for early signs of heat illness — including fatigue, thirst and headaches — which could “rapidly evolve into life-threatening emergencies.”
The health risks are greater for older adults, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with physical or mental illnesses and people with mobility issues or disabilities.