Weather Safety
Understanding Humidex and Humid Heat Risks
Humidex is a Canadian innovation that describes how hot the weather actually feels. Learn how to calculate it and stay safe.
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WeatherCA Staff Writer
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Why does humidity make hot weather feel so much worse?
Our bodies cool down by sweating, which evaporates into the air. However, when the air is already saturated with water vapor, sweat cannot evaporate as easily, making it harder for our bodies to regulate temperature. In Canada, we use the Humidex scale to measure this combined effect of heat and moisture.
The Humidex Comfort Scale
- 20 to 29: Little or no discomfort
- 30 to 39: Some discomfort
- 40 to 45: Great discomfort; avoid exertion
- Over 45: Dangerous; heat stroke is imminent
