Climate change
Climate change is defined as long-term changes in climate conditions, that are identified by changes in temperature, precipitation, wind and other indicators.
Climate change impacts the health of all people. Potential health impacts can be direct or indirect.
Direct health impacts of climate change |
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Indirect health impacts of climate change |
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Contamination and availability of food and water |
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Changes in precipitation and temperature can influence the quality and quantity of food. KFL&A Public Health:
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Vector-borne infectious diseases |
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Changes in climate can lengthen the transmission seasons of certain vector-borne diseases and expand their geographic range. KFL&A Public Health:
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Extreme weather
Unexpected, unusual, unpredictable or unseasonal weather. Changing temperatures will increase the frequency of heat waves, storms, floods, droughts, and wildfires, which can affect asthma, chronic respiratory disease, cardiovascular disease, water quality and contamination.
KFL&A Public Health:
- Monitors extreme weather events forecasted by Environment Canada.
- Participates in municipal emergency response planning.
- Monitors rates of cold and heat related emergency department visits with the Public Health Information Management System (PHIMS).
- Works with local governments to support tree canopy preservation to mitigate against extreme heat and protect against Ultraviolet Radiation (UVR).
- Promotes sun safety and UVR protection to reduce skin cancer.
Extreme heat and cold
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issue both heat and cold weather warnings to allow people and communities to prepare to avoid serious health effects from extreme weather temperatures.
It is important to be prepared for severe weather by:
- Limiting travel during severe weather events, unless necessary
- Monitoring the weather forecast
- Preparing for emergencies in advance
Extreme cold |
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ECCC will issue cold weather warning when the temperature or wind chill is expected to reach -35°C for at least two hours. Recommended precautions include wearing multiple layers of clothing, covering exposed skin, staying hydrated, and maintaining a heated indoor environment. Vulnerable groups, such as older adults and people experiencing homelessness, should be checked on frequently to ensure they are in a safe and warm environment. During extreme cold events, it is important to protect pipes from freezing and to use space heaters safely. It is also important to watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia and seek medical attention when necessary. |
Extreme heat |
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ECCC issues heat warnings when there is a forecast of two or more consecutive days with with daytime maximum temperatures of 31°C or warmer, together with nighttime minimum temperatures of 20°C or warmer or when there is a forecast of two or more consecutive days with humidex values expected to reach 40 or higher. To protect yourself during extreme heat, it is important to drink plenty of water, limit time outdoors during the hottest part of the day, wear sunscreen and light, loose-fitted clothing, and seek shade or cool off in an air-conditioned space. Vulnerable groups, such as older adults and people experiencing homelessness, should be checked on frequently to ensure they are in a safe and cool environment. The Canadian Red Cross has more information on how to stay safe during heat waves. It is also important to watch for signs of heat illness. Heat stroke is a medical emergency, call 911 if you are caring for someone who has a high body temperature and is either unconscious, confused or has stopped sweating. Contact Health811 at 1-866-797-0000 for free medical advice. |
Extreme weather shelter locations in the KFL&A area |
Extreme weather shelter locations are public and private spaces within the KFL&A region where you are welcome to come in and seek shelter during extreme weather events. Please call ahead to confirm hours of operation and if there is capacity.
Those at most risk from extreme weather include:
For further information including services for those experiencing homelessness, please contact the City of Kingston or your local municipality. |