Blame the odd weather patterns in Canada on the jet stream. Cities in East and West Canada are sweltering in thirty-degree weather while those in the nation’s central region are experiencing rainy and chilly days, prompting residents to schedule air conditioning and furnace repair by Toronto experts. CBC correspondent Erin Obourn described this weather phenomenon in a recent CBC News article:
The reason for the abnormal summer weather could be extreme fluctuations in the jet stream, according to weather experts.
Temperatures in Vancouver, Edmonton and Calgary are currently well above seasonal averages, soaring into the 30s.
Save energy
Cities affected by the heat wave are being hit by power shortages, and local governments have requested residents to do their part and pitch in. Temperatures have reached record highs in some areas, higher than they’ve been in decades:
In the West, hot weather has resulted in a summer record for power consumption in Alberta. Residents are being asked to voluntarily reduce their power consumption by turning off unnecessary lights and appliances.
Jet stream has everyone steamed
In layman’s terms, the jet stream is a band of air that travels in the upper atmosphere. According to meteorologists, it is this fast-moving belt that is blocking the warm air from North America from reaching Central Canada:
The jet stream is riding high on the coasts…
Where it rides high, it allows warm air to move in from the south…
Where the jet stream is riding low, it brings a large swath of cold air from the Arctic abnormally far south.
Stay cool
Given the weather’s unpredictability, it’s better to play safe and have your heating and cooling systems checked. Laird & Son, a company which specializes in air conditioning and furnace installation in Toronto, recommends routine maintenance to ensure functionality and energy efficiency. This will prevent breakdowns and avoid expensive repair bills.
The heat wave cannot be taken for granted since it can cause heat stroke, dehydration, high blood pressure, and respiratory conditions. Always ensure that water is available to stay hydrated, and conserve much-needed energy by using a ventilator or fan when the heat is bearable. Lastly, stay alert for symptoms of heat stroke among family members; these signs include dizziness, redness of skin, and difficulty in breathing.
(Source: Summer anomaly brings chilly days to residents between sweltering coasts, CBC News, July 31, 2014)