Extended Heat Warning for Simcoe and Muskoka is in effect

June 23, 2025

News
Notices

An Extended Heat Warning for Simcoe and Muskoka is in effect. Dangerously hot, humid conditions are expected June 23 and June 24, with daytime highs of 30 to 33ºC, with humidex values of 40 to 43ºC.

Anyone can get sick from extreme heat, but some people are more at risk. People at greater risk include infants and young children, older adults, pregnant people, people living with chronic health conditions including mental illnesses. People who live alone, don’t have access to cooled indoor spaces or work or exercise in the heat (indoors or outdoors) are also at higher risk.

When outdoor temperatures are hot, indoor temperatures can rise even higher. Indoor temperatures of
26°C or higher are dangerous to health, especially for people more sensitive to heat.

For more information about extreme heat, visit smdhu.org/heat.

Pay close attention to how you and those around you feel. Know the signs and symptoms of heat illnesses and what to do if they occur. Remember, heat stroke is a medical emergency! If you are caring for someone who has a high body temperature, is unconscious or confused, has stopped sweating, and/or feels dizzy/faints, call 911 immediately. Check the weather forecast and alerts to stay informed. If you take medication or have a health condition, ask your health care provider if it increases your risk from extreme heat or dehydration.

Drink plenty of water before you feel thirsty. Cool off by taking a cool shower or bath, going for a swim, putting your feet in water or applying a damp towel to your skin. If you have air conditioning, turn it on; even on low, it can help you stay safe. Keep the heat out. During the day, shut windows and doors (if indoor temperatures are comfortable) and close blinds, curtains, or awnings. Open doors and windows when it is cooler outside. Use a fan to circulate air during cooler parts of the day

Spend time in a cool or air-conditioned place. Contact your local municipality or visit their website for hours and locations of cooling spaces or go to a cooler public place like a library, shopping mall, or swimming pool.

Use the heat check-in resource (to check in on neighbours, friends and family, especially those at greater risk, to make sure they are cool and hydrated. High temperatures and humid air can increase air pollution levels. Check the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) for your location. Extreme heat is usually more dangerous than short-term exposure to poor air quality, so you should prioritize staying cool if you must choose.

Local cooling and hydration centres

Residents can access the following three facilities in Severn to cool down and access water:

Administration Office
1024 Hurlwood Lane
Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Coldwater Community Centre
11 Michael Anne Drive
Tuesday and Wednesday: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Washago Community Centre
4361 Hamilton Street
Tuesday and Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The City of Orillia also welcomes Severn residents in need of relief to:

Orillia Public Library
36 Mississaga Street West
Monday to Thursday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday: closed
Orillia Recreation Centre
255 West Street South
Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Saturdays and Sundays: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Orillia's Splash Pads will also be open daily. Visit the City of Orillia website for more information on the Splash Pad locations.

Contact the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit

Phone: 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520
Heather Howe (x 7472)
mediainquiry@smdhu.org

Heat Warning received by the Township of Severn via email on June 20, 2024 from the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit.