Hamilton had its sixth-muggiest June day on record

The humidex in Hamilton on Wednesday came within two degrees of the mark for the muggiest June day on record.

With the first heat warning of the year in effect, it felt like 42C by late in the afternoon, the warmest part of the day. The humidex and official temperature, which was 33C, are recorded at the Hamilton airport, which is on the mountain. Residents of the lower city, particularly in areas where a preponderance of paved surfaces and sparse tree canopy contributes to an urban heat island effect, often experience warmer temperatures.

Weather historian Rolf Campbell said that 42C is tied for the sixth-muggiest June day in Hamilton’s history.

The record humidex of 44.3C was recorded on June 30, 2018. Three of the seven muggiest June days have happened in the last five years.

Today is the 6th muggiest June day on record in #Hamilton: 42. #YhmWx #YHM pic.twitter.com/LRiuaZTfO0

— Hamilton Weather Records🌤 (@YHM_Weather) June 16, 2022

The heat and humidity are expected to endure until Thursday evening. The City of Hamilton and other community agencies are offering “cool places” for residents, which are identified by a “Cool Down Here” sign at the entrance. Further information is available at hamilton.ca/heat.

Regularly scheduled open swims at all city-run pools are also free until the heat warning is lifted.

Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale and clammy skin, weak pulse, fainting and vomiting. Anyone experiencing symptoms should seek help right away, and call 911 if needed.