Heat warnings issued for all 3 P.E.I. counties

Summer doesn't officially begin until Thursday evening, but the heat is being turned up in a big way over Prince Edward Island this week.

Hot and humid weather is expected to blanket the Island, with temperatures forecast to hit a maximum of 31 C Wednesday and 32 C the next day.

The humidex could make it feel as hot as 38 C by the time the summer solstice arrives at 5:50 p.m. AT on Thursday.

That prompted Environment Canada to issue a heat warning Tuesday afternoon for all three of P.E.I.'s counties for Wednesday and Thursday. 

"Heat warnings are issued when very high temperature or humidity conditions are expected to pose an elevated risk of heat illnesses, such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion," the warning reads.

"Nighttime lows are forecast to remain fairly warm, limiting overnight cooling. Some relief may be found in communities located very close to the water."

P.E.I.'s Chief Public Health Office issued a news release Tuesday morning urging Islanders to protect themselves from heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Advice includes:

The news release also urges Islanders to stay on top of local weather forecasts and heat advisories.

The province has more tips on coping with an extreme heat-related emergency at Stay Cool, PEI  and Preparing for Heat Waves.