02-07-2025
‘Get into some shade': Residents in Moose Jaw staying cool amid heat warnings
Residents cooling off at the Phyllis Dewar Outdoor Pool in Moose Jaw, Sask. on July 2, 2025. (Brittany Poitras/CTV News)
Moose Jaw residents are attempting to beat the heat by any means necessary as the province's southwest grapples with a stretch of hot weather.
'The southern of the province has been exceptionally warm at this point,' Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) meteorologist Brian Proctor told CTV News.
A mass of warm air flooding up from Montana has led to temperatures topping out at 33 degrees in communities across the southwest.
'Often times, one of the warmest places in the country is sort of that Maple Creek area,' Proctor added.
While it's sure to cause discomfort for those without air conditioning – the recent heat wave has caused residents to flock to the Phyllis Dewar Outdoor Pool in Moose Jaw.
'The pool is one of the best places to be on a hot day like today,' recreation services supervisor Shelly Howe explained.
The pool has been a lifelong fixture for Dave Mahoney, who worked as a lifeguard all the way back in 1973.
'It was the best job ever,' he explained. 'I've been coming here all my life … I come here at least three or four times a week.'
Howe says those working at the pool are working hard to stay cool – alongside the patrons.
'It can be a challenge when you have a stretch of hot days and we all work together to make sure everyone stays safe,' she said.
From shortened rotations on the pool deck, to encouraging workers to take advantage of air-conditioned areas – Howe says work is being done to stay cool and stay safe.
'Sometimes you'll see a lifeguard jump in the water to cool off when they're not actively supervising,' she added.
Proctor shared some recommendations from the federal weather service for staying cool.
'It's best to shift your activity levels to the cooler parts of the day as best as you can,' Proctor said.
'Try to stay hydrated as you possibly can and if necessary, see how your body's doing and if you're feeling that heat, seek some shelter, get into some shade, get into some air-conditioned spaces if you can.'
Residents won't have to contend with blistering temperatures for much longer – as daily highs are expected to drop over the weekend – before rising again next week.
