Heat warning issued for areas of Beaufort Delta, Dehcho, Sahtú and South Slave

(Map retrieved from Environment Canada)

Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for several communities across nearly all NWT regions.

The communities affected are:

  • Inuvik
  • Fort McPherson
  • Tsiigehtchic
  • Norman Wells
  • Tulita
  • Fort Providence
  • Kakisa
  • Fort Simpson
  • Jean Marie River
  • Wrigley
  • Fort Smith

“Within the next day, temperatures will be reaching or exceeding 29 degrees Celsius combined with overnight lows of 17 to 20 degrees Celsius,” reads a notice from the Department of Health and Social Services. It adds the heat wave will likely last until the middle of next week.

Overexposure to extreme heat can result in heat stroke with symptoms including dizziness and fainting, nausea, headaches, rapid breathing, extreme thirst and decreased urination. Young children, pregnant women, elderly residents and people with chronic illnesses are especially at risk.

“If you or someone you are with is feeling dizzy or disoriented due to the extreme heat, please seek medical attention,” reads the notice.

Here is more information on the health effects of extreme heat.

About the Author

Francis Tessier-Burns
Francis was a reporter with CKLB from January 2019 to March 2023. In his time with CKLB, he had the immense pleasure and honour of learning about northern Indigenous cultures.