This is an interactive map showing “Canadians’ vulnerability and exposure to extreme heat waves.” The research team claims that “due to climate change, the frequency and intensity of heat waves is increasing.” The purpose of the tool is therefore to inform the population, but also experts and decision-makers, about the areas at risk.
“Local, regional and provincial authorities need to address the health, social and economic consequences of climate change,” said professor and project co-researcher Nathalie Barrette.
“Very strong” exhibition in Montreal and Quebec
Due to temperature fluctuations, it can be difficult to determine the susceptibility of a specific location. For this reason, the researchers relied on several types of data, including socio-economic and demographic data, as well as geographical accessibility to specific services and features of the built environment.
A quick look at the interactive map reveals that the province’s two largest cities, Montreal and Québec, are the regions with the most sectors experiencing “very high” heatwave exposure.
Heatwaves in sight
Like 2022, this summer could be riddled with heatwaves, according to a Farmers’ Almanac report released in March.
According to the report, most parts of Canada will experience “relentless” heat, which will be felt mainly from late June to early September, with temperatures sometimes reaching over 32C.
In Quebec we should observe a hot and dry climate with below average rainfall.
Environment Canada is expected to release its own summer forecast in late May, but preliminary forecasts also show a warmer than normal summer for most of Canada.
In 2022, Canada recorded its third warmest summer, with temperatures 1.6°C above average.
The last cool-than-average summer in Canada was almost 20 years ago, in 2004, when the nationwide average afternoon temperature reached 15.8°C.