New Brunswick Heat Wave Shatters Records, Hits 37.6°C Today

UPDATE: A blistering heat wave across New Brunswick has just shattered long-standing temperature records, including one that stood for nearly 150 years. As of today, August 11, 2023, the Miramichi area reached a staggering 37.6°C, marking it as the hottest spot in the province, according to Crawford Luke of Environment Canada.

With much of the province still under a heat warning, additional record highs are anticipated in the coming days. The previous record for Miramichi, set in 1876, was 36.7°C. Other areas, including Bathurst, Doaktown, and Kouchibouguac, also reported highs exceeding 37°C, while Moncton and St. Stephen were close behind at approximately 36°C.

“This is an extraordinary heat event,” Luke emphasized. “We are seeing records fall across nearly the entire province.” Residents are urged to remain vigilant as extreme heat poses significant health risks, especially for outdoor workers.

Construction crews are feeling the impact directly. Larry Parent, a road crew worker in Saint John, reported that he consumes up to six liters of water daily, stating, “It can be brutal. The asphalt can reach about 190°F, and we’re basically in the sun from dawn until dusk.”

Co-worker Daniel Maher echoed the sentiment, saying, “The heat sucks the energy right out of you.” Workers are implementing a buddy system to monitor each other’s health, taking breaks in shaded areas whenever possible. “If it gets too hot, they’ll shut it down,” Maher noted, emphasizing the seriousness of heat exhaustion.

Meanwhile, landscaper Meeda Berg in Fredericton plans to start work earlier at 6 a.m. to avoid the worst heat. “This summer feels like the hottest one yet,” she explained, adding that they have cut their workdays short twice this week to cope.

Forecasts indicate that the oppressive heat will persist through Wednesday, with little relief in sight. Luke mentioned, “We might see some rain Thursday, but it may not be widespread or substantial,” highlighting the ongoing dry conditions as many regions haven’t witnessed any rainfall this month.

As authorities monitor the situation closely, residents are reminded to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during peak heat hours, and find ways to cool off. “It’s definitely something to take seriously,” Luke warned.

Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds.