Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued the first heat warning of the year for Lambton County, with hot and humid weather expected to begin Saturday, June 21, and continue into next week.
Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued the first heat warning of the year for Lambton County, with hot and humid weather expected to begin Saturday, June 21, and continue into next week.
A heat warning is issued when temperatures are forecasted to reach 31°C or higher during the day and remain at or above 20°C overnight for at least two consecutive days. Alternatively, it can be triggered when the humidex—a combined measure of heat and humidity—is expected to hit 40°C or more.
“Heat-related illnesses are a high risk for the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses,” said Dr. Karalyn Dueck, Medical Officer of Health. “Any individual can be impacted, though, especially if they work or are active outdoors, and it is recommended they take steps to combat the heat and stay cool.”
In response to the warning, Lambton Public Health has activated a network of cooling centres throughout the region. These spaces—offered through community partners like libraries, recreation centres, and health facilities—are open to the public during regular business hours and provide short-term, indoor relief from the heat.
Some key locations in Sarnia include:
Bright’s Grove Library – 2618 Hamilton Rd.
Clearwater Library – 1400 Wellington St.
Sarnia Library – 124 Christina St. South
West Lambton Community Health Centre – 429 Exmouth St.
The Inn of the Good Shepherd – 115 John St. (including weekend hours)
Sarnia-Lambton Rebound – The Hub – 350 Indian Rd. S. (for youth ages 12–24)
Cooling centres do not offer overnight shelter or additional services beyond their usual amenities. Individuals experiencing homelessness are encouraged to contact Ontario Works or The Good Shepherd Lodge for emergency housing support.
To see the full list of cooling centres by municipality, visit LambtonPublicHealth.ca.
Health officials are urging residents to take precautions. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include rapid breathing, dizziness, fainting, vomiting, fast heartbeat, extreme thirst, and dark yellow urine. Anyone experiencing these should move to a shaded or air-conditioned space, drink water, and rest. Persistent symptoms require medical attention.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately if someone has a high body temperature, confusion, dizziness, or has stopped sweating.
Drink water regularly—even before you feel thirsty.
Avoid strenuous activity between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Keep blinds or curtains closed during the day to block sunlight.
Never leave children, seniors, or pets in parked vehicles.
Check on vulnerable neighbours or family members.
Residents can also sign up for Sarnia-Lambton Alerts to receive direct notifications of future heat or cold warnings at sarnialambtonalerts.ca.
