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B.C. port workers ratify deal, ending long labour dispute

Photo: porttechnology.org

Vancouver: British Columbia’s port workers have voted almost 75 per cent in favour of accepting a contract offer, ending weeks of turbulent job action that stopped billions of dollars’ worth of goods from being shipped.

In a statement on the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Canada website, president Rob Ashton says the results of the latest ratification vote came in 74.66 per cent in favour of the agreement.

Federal Labour Minister Seamus O’Regan confirmed in a tweet that both the ILWU and the BC Maritime Employers Association have ratified the deal, ending the dispute.

O’Regan says, however, that he is directing federal officials to review the entire case to avoid a port disruption of this magnitude from happening in the future.

The employers association says in a statement that it ratified the four-year deal, which “includes increases in wages, benefits and training that recognizes the skills and efforts of B.C.’s waterfront workforce,” on Monday.

No further details of the agreement have been announced.

The results come after two days of voting this week by full union membership, following the union and employers jointly announcing a tentative agreement last Sunday night.

The approval of the contract, which covers about 7,400 workers, comes after the union rejected a mediated settlement twice in July _ once through the group’s leadership caucus, another by full membership.

The last full membership vote rejecting a deal on July 28 led to O’Regan directing the Canada Industrial Relations Board to assess if a negotiated deal was still possible, and if not, the board was directed to impose a new deal or binding arbitration.

The Canadian Press

All New 2024 Mazda CX-90 SUV – Seats Eight in Style.

Review by Veeno Dewan

For 2024 Mazda Canada has introduced the Mazda CX-90 SUV. The large three-row crossover can seat eight occupants and represents the company’s new flagship vehicle. For now, it is the only electrified three-row crossover on the market available. The body is designed to be sleek with crafted curves and a typical Mazda design language. Discreet  chrome trim is tasteful and spare. The CX-90 rides on available 21-inch diamond-cut wheels that feature a slick well integrated black metallic finish. It is features the typically sensuous, sculpted  sleek looking Mazda design language Mazda fans love so much.

There are three powertrains for buyers to choose from. The base CX-90   Turbo as tested has the  280-horsepower, turbocharged 3.3-liter inline six-cylinder engine with a 48-volt Mild-hybrid Boost and i-stop setup.

The PHEV (plug-in hybrid) model combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, an electric motor, and a 17.8-kilowatt-hour battery, for a total system output of 323 hp. The most powerful version is the Turbo S, which uses the same basic engine as the Turbo but bumped up to 340 hp, giving it the most horsepower and torque of any production engine from Mazda. All three versions put the power to the road through an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The three-row SUV can be configured to carry six, seven, or eight occupants.

Mazda rates the CX-90 PHGEV can travel up to 42 km of pure electric range or you can cleverly “store” the charge for later use. Charging times for the battery come in at 1.3 hours on a Level 2 plug: and 6.4 hours via Level 1.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 has  a starting entry -level MSRP of $45,900 to $63,300. The GS, DS-L and GT versions feature a   280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft torque. The higher spec GT  and top line Signature  versions offer a higher output engine: 319 horsepower and 369 lb-ft torque on 87-octane  and high-output engine: 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft torque on 93-octane together with a 48v mild-hybrid system for more efficient performance.

The CX-90’s cabin design has a luxury premium feel. High quality  materials, such as Nappa leather, wood, and tone-on-tone fabrics that all come together harmoniously. Top line Signature models have an even more premium look and feel with unique Japanese  Kumihimo stitching using negative space to create a unique design ethos. There is room for up to eight passengers. Opt for the second-row captain’s chairs and the total seating drops to seven.

New, advanced technologies and amenities enhancements include such features as an optional  10.3- or larger 12.3-inch infotainment display controlled via a click wheel on the CX-90’s center console, which is more intuitive to use, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard, The CX-90  offers a 12-speaker Bose premium stereo. available third-row USB-C charging ports, air conditioning vents, and upgraded interior lighting, are among  many more features.

The safety suite is good. Mazda CX-90 gets smart brake support front, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise with stop and go, lane keep assist, and road departure protection standard across the board. Mazda has also introduced a new Driver Personalization System that uses cameras to ID your face and switch dozens of functions to your setting. Great for a family ride that sees multiple drivers.

On the road – ride and handling is stand out thanks to Mazda  Kinematic Posture Control, which suppresses body lift on tight corners to enhance the grip and allows all occupants to maintain a natural posture.

There’s Normal, Sport, and Off-Road for drive modes, and of course EV Mode of you opt for the hybrid version in which Mazda that lets you either use the up-to-42-km of electric range; or store and accumulate it for on-demand use. Fuel ratings on the 70L tank are 9.9 L/100 km city; 8.7 highway; and 9.4 combined, or 4.2 Le/100 km with the battery working. The electric motor is placement between the engine and transmission unit , make a for well balanced handling and smooth upscale ride. The steering is responsive, and despite its size and weight, the CX-90 is fairly agile. Fuel ratings   are 9.9 L/100 km city; 8.7 highway; and 9.4 combined, or 4.2 Le/100 km with the battery in action. The CX-90 also has a good towing ability  at up to 5,000 lbs.

To sum up, the all-new 2024 CX 90 is an attractive proposition, with a PHEV version offering  decent fuel economy, all electric range for urban and city driving up to three rows of seats and eight seating capacity- what’s not to love? A must buy if you need maximum people carrying ability and comes highly recommended.

2024  Mazda CX-90. Price as tested $65,945 with Options, Freight and PDE.

More info at www.mazda.ca

Woman and girl dead, boy injured after ATV crash in Parry Sound

A woman and a child from southern Ontario are dead and a boy is injured after a single all-terrain vehicle crash east of Parry Sound, Ont.

Ontario Provincial Police say the crash took place just before 7 p.m. Sunday in Perry Township.

They say three people from Holland Landing, north of Toronto, were riding on the ATV

Police say a 42-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

They say a five-year-old girl was in serious condition when she was airlifted to hospital, where she later died, and a nine-year-old boy sustained non-life-threatening injuries in the crash.

Police say the investigation is ongoing.

RCMP suspect Amber Alert kids taken off grid after ‘preplanned’ abduction by B.C. mom

SURREY, B.C. — Police say they have “credible information” that two children who are the subject of an Amber Alert have been taken “off the grid” in an alleged “preplanned” abduction by their mother.

Surrey RCMP say they believe Verity Bolton, along with her father Robert and boyfriend Abraxus Glazov are living in trailers in a rural area after the woman failed to return the children to their father earlier this month.

Police say they’ve received 180 tips about the case, but the whereabouts of eight-year-old Aurora and 10-year-old Joshuah Bolton remain unknown, with the last confirmed sighting at a Merritt, B.C., gas station on July 7.

Investigators say Verity Bolton’s 53-year-old boyfriend is an outdoorsman and fishing enthusiast from Nelson who has lived off grid in the past.

RCMP say Robert Bolton, the children’s’ 74-year-old grandfather, is from Chilliwack and hasn’t been to his home since June 30, when officers say he met with his daughter.

Sgt. Tammy Lobb says the public will play a major role in locating the children.

“We need the public to be alive to the information and photos we have shared and to be our eyes and ears and continue to call us with any tips and possible sightings.”

Police launched a tip line and email account last week to gather information about the case after finding out that Verity Bolton had access to several trailers, capable of being towed by the 2012 Dodge Ram pickup which she was spotted driving.

Authorities first issued the Amber Alert on July 19 when the children were not returned as planned to their father, who has primary custody.

Police say the last confirmed sighting of Verity Bolton was at a Kamloops, B.C., grocery store on July 15.

2023 Acura RDX Premium Elite: Premium Crossover on Deck!

Auto review by Veeno Dewan.

Consistently seen as one of the world’s best compact luxuries CUVs, the 2023 Acura RDX expands on its promise of delivering excellent performance, outstanding value and a comprehensive menu of luxury and safety as befits its standing in this class.

As Acura’s best-selling model, the RDX compact crossover gets a makeover for 2023, featuring refined styling, and a much quieter cabin, plus a  retuned suspension system. First up, externally there is a revised grille, with larger air intakes on the front bumper, and a revised rear bumper with rectangular exhaust tips. The RDX is one of the better-looking compact SUVs in the market and the latest changes add to its appeal.

The RDX’s interior is also improved with new standard and optional tech features. The RDX is powered by a sole 272-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 280 lb-ft of torque, mated with a 10-speed automatic transmission and arrives in either front- or Acura’s wonderfully named  “SH-AWD” (Super Handling All Wheel Drive version. The as standard torque-vectoring SH-AWD system aid in quicker more responsive turning and sharper steering.

For 2023, new Tech updates on the RDX include: enhanced Active Sound Control, which reduces ambient road noise and increases cabin quietness. There is also  standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration and Amazon Alexa built-in, and available Qi-compatible wireless charging. The available Acura Iconic Drive, (part of the Technology Package), offers 27 unique interior lighting colour combinations. The RDX offers  comprehensive technology with a  10.2-inch touchscreen operated via a touchpad on the center console. Also, as standard is a Wi-Fi hotspot. The optional Technology package adds built-in navigation, rear-seat USB ports, a premium 12-speaker ELS Studio audio system, and more.

For  2023 — there are tow models; The A-Spec ($54,700) and Platinum Elite (   the RDX A-Spec is $54,975; and the fully loaded RDX A-Spec Platinum Elite is $60,100. The premium Elite includes,  Infotainment System comprising of 10.20-inch display screen, 16-speaker, ELS, Surround Sound, Voice acting System, , Satellite Radio, Hard Drive, In-car WiFi Network, Standard Wireless Charging Pad, Standard Head-up Display, and navigation. Also included is: A/C, Auto, 3 Zones, Leather seats and much more.

Interior wise the RDX offers a sporty cabin with atypically busy Acura  dash and center stack with a multitude of  buttons, a touchpad, and a rotary drive-mode selector. Not much to complain about – the  touchpad interface has a bit of learning curve but that is about it. The front seats are amazingly comfortable and snazzy if you go for  the red trimmed perches. Head and legroom is good and the  fit finish and build quality is exceedingly high. Features such as ambient lighting; power-adjustable heated front seats; and triple-zone climate control all add to the luxury feel and experience. The rear cabin is well executed with roomy back seats that fold flat from the rear cargo hatch. The trunk offers  835 litres with the rear seats in place. The large hold also has hidden underfloor  storage compartments.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features are numerous and there is:   Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and Standard adaptive cruise control. The Technology package includes front and rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and rear-cross-traffic alert plus more.

On the road, there are four drive modes with the Sport+ mode the most entertaining. Comfort is for a more relaxing drive, Sport for added thrills and there is a Snow mode for slippery surfaces. . An updated Integrated Dynamics System now delivers a more distinct driving feel between the RDX’s four driving modes Like other all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, SH-AWD transfer’s power from the front axle to the rear to increase traction as needed and can also vary the power on the left and right rear wheels to boost cornering ability on dry ground and traction on wet surfaces. In slippery road conditions we encountered the SH-AWD made a stark difference. Acura made some changes for 2022 to improve sound dampening, and the result is a quieter ride overall

Official fuel consumption figures for the 2023 RDX are 11.3L/100 km, 9.1L/100 km and 10.3L/100 km (city/highway/combined).

Main highlights include the excellent SH-AWD system, a roomy cabin and large cargo area. Downsides are few- the multimedia screen needs to be touch operated and there is no hybrid or EV options in the model range. The RDX is firmly in entry-level Mercedes and BMW territory with its level of engineering, luxury interior and performance.

2023 Acura RDX: Priced from:  $54,700 – $60,100.

More info at www.acura.ca.

2023 MAZDA MX-5 RF GT: Unique fastback delivers open air thrills!

By Veeno Dewan

The Mazda MX 5 RF is a Targa roof version of the iconic MX-5 soft-top roadster. RF is short for retractable fastback. The main difference in the new RF is the rear upper part of the body that features dual flying buttresses, giving the RF an incredibly unique fastback, all in about 13 seconds and transforms the car from a swoopy coupe to a sexy looking “Targa.”   Operate a switch inside the RF and the flying buttresses lift, the solid roof and rear glass slides back and down into a self-contained storage area, and the buttresses lock back down again. All this happens in about 13 seconds. The hardtop adds about 100 pounds to the cars weight – but with an almost perfect 50/50 weight distribution – performance is not affected too much.

Latest updates for 2023 are minimum, the powerplant features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine at a higher 7,500 rpm and 151 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm. Maximum engine speed has been raised from 6,800 rpm to 7,500 rpm. Torque has been increased from low to high engine speeds, with faster response times for the engine. The RF is premium upgrade to the MX-5 and starts at base $42,900, for base GS-P Manual or automatic while the higher spec GT is $44,000 for either the automatic or manual transmission version. The transmission is either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic gearbox.

We tested a 2023 Mazda MX-5 RF GT with the six- speed manual transmission model, with: SKYACTIV-G 2.0L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine, SKYACTIV-MT 6-speed manual transmission, sport suspension with Bilstein® shock absorbers, Limited Slip Differential (LSD), strut tower bar, LED headlights with signature lighting, LED Daytime Running Lights, LED rear combination lights, auto headlight levelling, auto on/off headlights, 7″ colour touchscreen display with Mazda noise compensation technology (including driver and passenger headrest speakers, and subwoofer). Advanced keyless entry system, air conditioning with automatic climate controls is also part of the spec.

The interior is snug and comfortable with well bolstered seats that allow for high-G maneuvers without sliding around. The newish Kinematic Posture Control (KPC), a software-based suspension performance technology development by Mazda that manages different vehicle systems to help provide MX-5 with improved precision and confidence in high-g cornering and behave as an  extension of the driver’s body. Love the  white coloured eats, door panel and dash that add so much class to the interior! Two average-sized adults will feel good and the MX-5’s interior highlights include simple, legible gauges and well-designed ergonomic controls that remains true to its roots with the focus on being a driver’s car. Interior storage is tight, this being a small narrow car – there are two removable cupholders, a small center console/arm rest and a cubby hole under the bottom of the center stack that can take a phone or wallet. Sadly, the trunk is miniscule at only 121L cargo capacity. Take soft squishy bags!

The driving experience is so pure in the MX-5, that even novice drivers can carve corners with precision and skill. The steering is light and very responsive with excellent feedback. It is the epitomes of point and shoot driving. Despite the extra weight in the RF, I could not detect any drop in performance. The formula is delightfully simple and works. Beautifully engineered handling, a slick six-speed manual and a responsive four-cylinder engine providing adequate power. Enough said.

The combination of superbly matches engine, shifter, and chassis is simply wonderfully executed. The MX-5 RF is truly in its elements on winding   country roads, a day at the track or just blasting around with no place to go. It is so   small and light and instills any novice driver with confidence. Unlike more powerful, heavier, hairy sports cars the MX-5 RF is not overwhelming – and instills a more organic, joyful way of driving. Fuel economy is: (Premium Gasoline in L/100 km) is rated at: 9.0 city; 7.0 highway.

Downsides are few, the interior will be a tight for the larger bodied. I for one would err on the side of the Targa as opposed to the soft top. The hardtop offers security, its quieter inside, and the vibration-free cabin makes it an everyday car. Note, the RF is not a cheap option for what is an exceedingly small two- seater. Still, it is worth the money. If purist daily driving thrills are what you need – look no further than the RF. Simply Wonderful.

2023 Mazda MX-5 RF GT   MRSP Priced from $40,900 – $44.000 plus delivery, PDI and taxes.

Website: www.mazda.ca

 

 

 

 

BC-IBN, GELP, and Consulate General of India in Vancouver Present the Education and Skills Summit

Vancouver – BC-IBN, GELP, and the Consulate General of India are hosting the Education and Skills Summit on July 21st from 12:30-5:30 pm at the Element by Westin, in Burnaby. Esteemed political, education and business leaders, along with students will come together to discuss Education in a Disrupted World and provide new perspectives to help chart new pathways for success.

At the Summit, there will be a fireside chat with Hon. Rachna Singh and Hon. Raj Chouhan.

The International Keynote speaker will be Raghwa Gopal, CEO of M Square Media (MSM), a top edtech company, and former CEO of Innovate BC. The Consul General of India, Mr. Manish will make a presentation on educational initiatives, opportunities and collaborations between India and BC. Omar Karim, Founder and President of Global Emerging Leadership Programs will deliver the Closing Keynote.

Dr. Vivek Savkur, Founder & President Emeritus of BC-IBN, stated, “We believe that education is the cornerstone of progress and societal development. Through this Summit, we aspire to create a platform where leaders, educators, and innovators can come together to reimagine education and skill development for a better future for all”.

“The future of education and work is a critical topic we need to talk about candidly in order to transform educational systems in meaningful and sustainable ways. The Summit provides an inclusive and reflective platform to do just that,” added Sobhana Jaya-Madhavan, President of BC-IBN.

The Education and Skills Summit aims to promote rich dialogue, collaboration and catalyse positive, proactive and progressive change in the education sector.

Register:

https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/bc-ibn-gelp-co-presents-education-and-skills-summit-tickets-660636630947

 

Trudeau says Ukrainian officer cadets will train at Quebec military college

Photo: pm.gc.ca

VILNIUS: The military will welcome Ukrainian officer cadets to Canada for an intensive training program developed in partnership with NATO, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Wednesday.

Trudeau, who was in Vilnius, Lithuania, for the military alliance’s annual leaders’ meeting, said the cadets will be trained at the Royal Military College in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Que.

Trudeau told reporters the Canadian Armed Forces have helped train almost 40,000 Ukrainian military and security personnel through an operation based in Latvia.

He announced the expansion of that mission earlier this week, saying up to 2,200 Armed Forces members will be stationed there in the coming years as the NATO battlegroup ramps up to become a brigade by 2026.

It will spend $2.6 billion over the next three years toward that goal.

“For over 500 days now, Ukraine has withstood Russian brutalities. (Russian President Vladimir) Putin made a grave miscalculation. He underestimated Ukrainians’ courage and he underestimated the strength of the West’s solidarity and resolve,” Trudeau said.

Trudeau said that G7 leaders have separately come together to launch a process “to provide long-term, multi-year commitments to their security.”

He said security guarantees from Canada and allies will send a message.

“Putin wants to wait out and grind down the alliance, grind down Ukrainians, but he’s not going to be able to because we will be there for as long as it takes and that’s what these security assurances are all about.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy blasted NATO on Tuesday for failing to set a timeline for when his country can join the military alliance.

Trudeau met Zelenskyy earlier Wednesday, when the Ukrainian president thanked Canada for its support during the war and Trudeau pledged that will continue for as long as it’s needed.

In the context of the NATO meeting, Zelenskyy said Ukraine needs Trudeau’s support, adding he was “sure that we’ll have it.”

NATO leaders also agreed at this week’s summit, which wrapped up on Wednesday, to make two per cent of GDP a minimum target for spending on defence, with one-fifth of that money going toward new equipment and research and development.

Canada’s spending on the military currently stands at just under 1.3 per cent of its economy.

Trudeau was asked whether he can commit to reaching the two per cent mark by the end of the decade. He did not set out a timeline or confirm Canada would meet the target.

“We will continue to look to invest more as necessary to keep Canadians safe and to contribute fully around the world and we’ll continue to follow up on the math,” he said.

2023 Infiniti QX60: Sensory AWD; Luxury SUV Impresses Highly

Auto review by Veeno Dewan

The 2023 Infiniti QX60 is a sleek three-row premium crossover utility vehicle that offers a good combination of luxury and versatility. It’s been one of the highest-selling models for Infiniti since its 2012 debut and now undergoes a redesign for the new model year.
The new 2023 redesign takes it to a new level of luxury with a stellar good look, improved fuel economy and new tech features. Externally, the revised QX60 carries a smart contemporary look with a new grille, bi-xenon headlamps., All trims come with a 3.5L V6 engine providing 295 horses. There’s an all-new nine-speed automatic transmission, and All-Wheel-Drive is standard on all models. There is 12 percent less cabin noise than in the previous
generation.
The interior is also revamped with a theatre-styled layout for better occupant visibility. The dash also has a new 10.8-inch head-up display, along with a new 12.3-inch interactive display. Also fresh: is wireless Apple CarPlay and USB-based Android Auto, second- and third-row roof-mounted vents, and the premium Bose audio system that comes standard in the Sensory and Autograph trims. Also new is updated and expanded functionality to ProPILOT Assist with Navi-Link compatibility.
The QX60 comes in four trims — Pure, Luxe, Sensory, and the top trim, Autograph. The Pure starts at $54,995, while the high-tech equipped Autograph as tested starts at $67,995. We tested the Sensory AWD Model which arrives lavishly equipped and priced at $72,490. All in.
The 2023 Infiniti QX60 comes well-equipped. Standard equipment is luxurious and generous with: Intelligent all-wheel drive, tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery with heated power-adjustable front seats and intelligent key with push-button start. There is also: heated leather wrapped steering wheel, seven-inch colour display with rear-view monitor, automatic HID headlights, cruise control, high spec audio system, power tailgate and rear privacy glass.
Inside, the QX60 looks suitably luxurious and well designed with sharp leather seats and nice textures, materials, and a high standard of fit and finish. Soft-touch materials abound for driver and passengers, and the overall ambience is very good. The sumptuous, quilted seats are to die for and offer superb comfort. The dash and console feature plenty of technology accessed by a host of buttons and switches. The interior is extremely versatile with full sliding second-row seats that allow easy access to the third row. The second-row splits 60/40, slides, reclines, and can be tilted forward for third-row access even with a child seat in place. The third-row seat is surprisingly roomy, but still only for kids. With the Second and third row seats folded there’s up to 2,166 L of available cargo space compared to 447 L of cargo space when all seats are up. Meanwhile, the 50/50 split folding third row can be quickly and easily folded flat to expand the cargo area. The second row’s captain chairs are only available in the Autograph trim as tested, which also includes a removable centre console.
The third row is typical of a three-row SUV: the QX60 holds 411 litres behind the third row, but it also has an extra 54 litres of underfloor storage. The third row’s seats easily fold down and are power operated on the two top trim levels.
On the road, the QX60s V6 engine offers a robust 295 horsepower, while torque is a healthy 270 lb-ft. The new nine-speed auto transmission offers sublime smooth up and down shifts while a dial on the center-console tunnel offers four driving modes: Standard, Sport, Snow, and Eco. Sport offers more throttle response, while Standard is a good all round driving mode. Suspension tweaks have improved the crossover’s handling somewhat. Body roll is less evident, and the QX60 takes corners better. Still with its light steering and rather soft ride, the QX60 is also much quieter than the previous generation and is still more of a comfortable cruiser, than a sporty handling SUV. If you plan to tow a trailer or boat, the lower two trims have a 3,500-pound capacity, while the top two versions can handle a 6,000-pound towing load.
Nothing much to gripe about, note the improved fuel economy in this all-new QX60 — it now has a combined rating of 10.7 L/100 km, 11.9 city, and 9.3 highway. In closing there is much to like about the QX60. It is luxurious, comfortable, and roomy, and is an excellent safety orientated family hauler. Downsides are few; buyers need to weigh up the premium models and the numerous options are worth the high cost when optioned out. The QX60 is very impressive and nice to drive all day long. A wonderfully executed luxury Crossover. Highly recommended.

2023 Infiniti QX60 AWD Autograph priced from $69,0955 plus options, freight and PDE. Price as tested- $72,490.
More info at www.infiniti.ca

 

Heat warnings in place in six provinces, Ontario town faces tornado warning

Extreme weather alerts remain in place across much of Canada, with federal forecasters warning of heat, rainfall, thunderstorms and possible tornadoes in different parts of the country.

Environment Canada has issued a tornado warning for the northwestern Ontario communities of Savant Lake and Sturgeon Lake, while Fort Severn on Hudson Bay is facing a rainfall warning.

Sioux Lookout, Ont., was also briefly under a tornado warning, but Environment Canada says it’s too soon to tell if such a storm touched down.

The neighbouring province of Quebec is under multiple alerts for both rainfall and severe thunderstorms that could produce lightning, flash floods and nickel-sized hail.

Heat warnings are in place in six provinces and two territories as an ongoing heat wave shows no signs of letting up.

In Atlantic Canada, temperatures are forecasted to reach close to 30 degrees on Sunday in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, while humidex values are expected to hit 37 degrees.

Temperatures are forecasted to soar near or above 30 degrees Celsius into Monday for parts of southern and coastal British Columbia, with the highest temperatures in some areas expected to hit 35 degrees.

In Alberta, most of the province is covered under a heat warning and daytime highs are expected near 30 degrees before moderating on Monday.

Temperatures are forecasted to be similar in Lloydminster, Saskatchewan.

In the North, communities in Yukon, including Whitehorse, Pelly and Watson Lake, are expected to remain above seasonal norms into next week, while in parts of the Northwest Territories, daily highs are expected to remain near 30 degrees into next week.

Environment Canada says very high temperatures could pose an elevated risk of illnesses like heat stroke or heat exhaustion, especially for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses and those working or exercising outdoors.

Among the provinces and territories, only Newfoundland and Labrador and Nunavut were spared any Environment Canada weather warnings while much of Manitoba faced a severe thunderstorm watch but didn’t reach the threshold for a warning.