Environment Canada, which specializes in weather forecasting, has issued a weather alert for the Vaudreuil-Soulanges area for the next few days. A major heat wave is expected to hit the region, pushing the mercury above 40 degrees Celsius in the afternoon until Wednesday. 

An afternoon humidex of over 40 is forecast for 3 days, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Maximum temperatures between 30 and 35°C are expected, followed by overnight lows above 20°C. Humidex values will exceed 40 in the afternoon on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Heat and humidity will drop from Friday onwards.

In very hot weather, a person's state of health can deteriorate rapidly. The Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux du Québec, in collaboration with Environment and Climate Change Canada, recommends protecting yourself from the effects of the heat by taking the following measures:

- Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day, without waiting until you're thirsty;

- If necessary, follow your doctor's instructions on how much fluid to drink;- Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages.

-Avoid alcoholic beverages and caffeine;

- If possible, spend at least 2 hours a day in an air-conditioned or cool place;

- Take at least one cool shower or bath a day, or cool your skin several times a day with a wet towel;

- Reduce physical exertion;

- Wear light clothing.

Make sure you :

- Never leave a child or baby alone in a car or poorly ventilated room, even for a few minutes;

- Check on and be ready to help loved ones, especially those who have lost their independence, have a disability, are mentally ill or live alone;

- Remember that the heat is uncomfortable for pets too.

For questions about a medical condition, call Info-Santé 8-1-1 or ask a healthcare professional. In an emergency, call 9-1-1.

For more information, visit the Quebec government's Portail santé mieux-être at www.sante.gouv.qc.ca. LExtreme heat can affect anyone's health. Health risks are greatest for the elderly, infants and young children, pregnant people, people suffering from physical or mental illness, and those with disabilities or mobility problems.It is also advisable to monitor the effects of heat-related illnesses: swelling, rashes, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the aggravation of certain health problems.