Environment Canada recorded a high of 39.1 C at Thunder Bay Airport at 3 p.m., with the humidex reaching 44 earlier in the day. It was the second-hottest July 13 ever recorded in the city, behind only the 40 C temperature recorded in 1936. The hottest temperature ever recorded in the Thunder Bay area was 40.3 C on Aug. 7, 1983.
A heat warning remained in effect as officials urged residents to take precautions, especially seniors, young children, people with health conditions, outdoor workers, and those experiencing homelessness.
The City of Thunder Bay advised people to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity, use air-conditioned spaces, and check on family members and neighbours. Public locations such as libraries, malls, and community centres were available as cooling spaces.
The city also provided support at local encampments, distributing water, fans, spray bottles, and electrolyte supplies during the heat warning.
Cooling centres extended their hours, including the PACE cooling centre on George Street and the Elevate NWO cooling centre on Cumberland Street North.
Residents were also reminded to protect pets by providing shade and water, limiting outdoor activity during peak heat, and never leaving animals inside vehicles.
