The southern Prairies, including southern Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, are set to experience their first significant heat wave of the year this week. Temperatures are expected to soar above 32°C for several days, with Winnipeg potentially reaching 36°C by Wednesday. This heat wave follows a notably cool spring, where temperatures were 2.5°C cooler than normal in March and continued to trend below average in April and May. David Phillips, a senior climatologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, highlighted the abrupt transition from winter-like conditions to summer heat, noting that many areas still have ice on lakes and rivers. The Weather Network has issued warnings regarding high humidex values and the increased risk of wildfires as the weather warms up. While the cool spring helped reduce wildfire risks, the upcoming heat could change that. Phillips emphasized that climate change is altering weather patterns, contributing to these fluctuations in temperature. Residents are advised to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight, and check on vulnerable individuals during this heat event.