By Canadian Press

Health authorities say 66 died in Montreal during last year’s heat wave

May 15, 2019 | 9:20 AM

Montreal health authorities now say 66 people died in the city during a heat wave between June 30 and July 8 last year.

An investigation has shown two-thirds of the victims were over the age of 65 and most were suffering from chronic illnesses.

A spokeswoman for the Montreal-area health authority said that social isolation, having a low income and living in a so-called heat island also significantly increased a person’s risk of death.

The health authority is recommending better strategies to identify vulnerable people through partnerships between local officials, health services and community organizations.

1000 Ways to Heal

1000 Ways to Heal: Moons

Dec 10, 2024

Question of the Week

Should Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson apologize or resign after it was found he breached a section of council's code of conduct for allowing false or misleading information to be communicated?

Dec 09, 2024

One Man's Opinion

COLLINS: Donald has it wrong - again

Dec 08, 2024

It is also suggesting that some neighbourhoods immediately plant more trees and other greenery to combat the heat island effect.

Previous estimates had suggested up to 53 died in the city when maximum daily temperatures soared to between 31.9 and 35.5 degrees at the end of June and early July.

The Canadian Press