Chatham-Kent remains under a heat warning, and it could linger into next week, according to Environment Canada.
First off, the obvious: It’s hot outside. And humid. Temperatures Thursday felt like 40C when factoring the humidex.
Furthermore, there’s a severe thunderstorm warning in effect Thursday afternoon.
Temperatures will remain high – 30C or more as our daytime highs and 20C or more as our overnight lows – through the weekend and into early next week.
To help folks beat the head, the municipality has cooling centres open during the week.
Municipal offices in Blenheim, Chatham, Ridgetown, Tilbury, and Wallaceburg, will offer space for people to stop in, sit, have a drink of water, and cool off during regular business hours (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). Locations can be found at https://www.chatham-kent.ca/services/Pages/Contact-Us.aspx.
Employment and Social Services, located in the courthouse building on Grand Avenue West, will do the same.
Hope Haven will offer services and a cooling station at their location at 183 Wellington St. W. in Chatham, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. as well. Their regular hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., seven days a week.
Local volunteer organizations, ROCK Missions (519-354-0430 ext. 205) and/or NeighbourLink (519-352-5647) can provide transportation free of charge for vulnerable people if needed.
