The hot and humid weather continued in Ottawa today, Tuesday, for the second consecutive day, and humidity is expected to make the temperature feel like 42 this afternoon.

The forecast also indicates that the maximum temperature will reach 33 degrees Celsius today and 34 degrees Celsius tomorrow, Wednesday.

The Canadian Environmental Agency has issued a heat warning for the National Capital Region, stating that the "prolonged heat event" will continue today, Tuesday.

The weather agency said in a statement that dangerously hot and humid conditions are expected during most of the week.

Daytime maximum temperatures are expected to range between 30 to 35 degrees Celsius with humidity values between 40 to 45. There will be little relief during the night, with minimum temperatures expected to range between 18 to 23 degrees Celsius and humidity values between 26 to 30. Temperatures and humidity values may be several degrees cooler near the Great Lakes shores.

Dr. Vera Etches, the medical officer of health, said in media statements, “The heat we are facing this week poses a risk to our lives; it indeed does.”

Public health in Ottawa has entered into an "enhanced response," with staff deployed to monitor the public during this hot weather period.

Relief from the hot and humid weather is not expected until next Saturday.

Etches said, “I urge people to adjust their daily routines to stay cool and well-hydrated. Knock on the doors of neighbors who don't have a cool place to live regularly and see if they need some help coping with this hot weather.”

She urged citizens to be sure to stay hydrated during activities, as we know this is a busy time for events with reduced strenuous activities and to monitor signs of heat-related illnesses.

David Phillips, senior climatologist at Environment Canada, said that the "heat dome" remains in place over Ottawa and Eastern Ontario, which is a large and persistent area of high pressure.

The term "heat dome" began in 2021 when Environment Canada witnessed "incredible tremendous" power of high pressure sitting over Alberta and British Columbia, according to Phillips.