Record-breaking heat continues in Montreal, but the end is in sight

If you're wondering where the sweater weather is, it's on the way. But not before another few days of July-like heat and record-breaking temperatures.

Environment Canada has officially issued heat warnings for parts of southwestern and central Quebec.

In Montreal, the forecasthigh of31 C, 40with the humidity, was reached around 2p.m. By the end of the afternoon, it hit 32 C. Thatbeats the previous record for the highest temperature ever recorded on this day at the airport, 29.3 C in 2007.

For tomorrow, more of the same 31 C, 40with the humidity, and Wednesday the forecast is for28 C.

Those temperatures are15 to 18 degrees above seasonal values during the day and5 to 9 degrees above seasonal values during the night.

The average high for this time of year is around 17.5 C, while the average low is 7.2 C.

Mostboroughs across the cityare extending the opening dates for waterparks and splash pads to help people deal with the heat.

For a complete list ofwhich water parks will be open and for how long, consult the city's handy list here.

Keep hydrated and stay cool

Dr. David Kaiser, a consulting physician with Montreal's department of public health, said it's important to stay hydrated during periods of high heat.

That applies especially to seniors,people with chronic health issues such as diabetes,heart orlung problems, people with mental health issues, and small children and infants.

"On hot days like this, it's easy to get dehydrated," he said. "Drink water. Don't wait until you're thirsty."

Kaiser also said it's important to keepcool: turn on the air conditioning if you're lucky enough to have it, or go somewhere that has it if you don't, such as a library or shopping centre.

"If you can't, use a towel cooled with cold water or take a cold shower."

Anyone with heat-related concerns can call the city's Info-Sant line at 811 and speak with a health professional.

What's causing this heat?

MeteorologistAlexandreParent said there has been a big ridge of high pressure hanging around for two weeks now, and it hasn't budged.

The heat has been steadily building to the point where we're seeing particularly steamy temperatures now.

"There's a blocking pattern, and things aren't really moving heat is building up, and themoisture as well, day after day after day," he said.

It's "exceptional" that we're seeing this weather pattern at this time of the year usually, this is something we'd experience in July and August, Parentsaid.

Also exceptional? The fact that we haven't had any rain since Sept. 10.

"The summer that we didn't have, we're having it now," Parent said.

A cold front is on the way, however.Temperatures should be solidly back to normal by Thursday, with a forecast high of 18 C.

And on Friday, it's expected to be 14 C and rainy, according to the weather agency. Perfect weather for layering.

Parent said weather models predict the first week of October will be nicewith above average temperatures, but nothing likewhat we've beenseeingthese last few days.