Saskatoon unofficially breaks daily heat record; scorcher to continue

The year was 1962.

It was the same year the Beatles released their first single — when a new home cost around $12,000 USD to buy — and it was also a scorcher in Saskatoon on Canada Day.

The daily record for the city was 33.9 C, set that year. Now, 2021 has unofficially broken that record.

In its 2 p.m. update, Environment Canada reported that Saskatoon hit 34.1 C.

Justin Shelley is a meteorologist for the agency, and he told 650 CKOM that the heat dome is forcing warm, descending air down to the surface and creating record-hot temperatures.

“Today and tomorrow look like record-setting days in Saskatoon. Saturday will be a bit more marginal. For Regina … there might be a day or two of daily records set,” he said.

As for all-time records, Shelley said those will likely not fall due to the heatwave.

“Regina’s all-time temperature record is 43.3 C set on July 5 of 1937. The hottest temperature ever recorded in Saskatoon was 40.6 C recorded on June 5, 1988,” he explained.

Shelley said if you are out and about this July 1, he has a few tips.

“You can reduce your heat risk by scheduling outdoor activities during the coldest part of the day. If you do plan to be outside in the heat, be sure to bring water, sunscreen and a hat,” he said.

Shelley added to have other optional plans if you do end up feeling ill. Also, hydrate early, not before it’s too late.

Saskatchewan’s hottest place was in Stony Rapids over the past 24-hours. Shelley said the northern community hit 39.8 C.