MONTREAL — In recent days, Montreal has faced a concerning rise in heat-related fatalities, with public health officials reporting three new deaths since Sunday. This marks an increase from a single death recorded at the beginning of the week.

The alarming situation comes in the wake of unusually high temperatures sweeping across the city. Environment Canada has confirmed that the mercury soared to 34 degrees Celsius or higher on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday, breaking previous temperature records in Montreal.

The public health agency in Montreal is also alerting the population to the dangers of extreme heat, as they have documented at least two instances of heat stroke in conjunction with these fatalities. In response to the heat wave, public health officials are urging Montreal emergency room doctors to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of heat-related deaths or heat strokes promptly.

Compounding the issue, paramedics serving Montreal and the neighboring city of Laval, Quebec, have experienced a significant uptick in emergency calls. Reports indicate a rise of between 15% and 20% in 911 calls received between Monday and Wednesday, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

As the city grapples with the heat, residents are seeking relief in various ways. Individuals like Miguel Roque from Portugal have been spotted trying to escape the oppressive humidity by reading in the shade at Lafontaine Park, indicative of the strategies locals are employing to cope with the extreme weather conditions.

The combination of high temperatures, increasing medical emergencies, and the tragic loss of life underscores the serious public health implications of this heat wave. It serves as a reminder of the growing concern regarding climate-related health risks in urban areas like Montreal.