ClimateSeptember 1, 2026

humidex

HYOO-mih-deks

Definition

A measurement index used to describe how hot the weather feels to the average person by combining the effects of heat and humidity.

Etymology

The term is a portmanteau derived from 'humidity' and 'index'. It was coined by Environment Canada in 1979 as a way to quantify the combined discomfort caused by heat and moisture in the air.

In the news

Environment Canada issued a heat warning for Oxford County because both high temperatures and high humidex values are expected, indicating an increased risk of discomfort or heat-related illness.

Yellow Warning for Heat Issued in Oxford County

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