QCX workers enduring scorching temperatures

The mercury soared Thursday, and many of those working at the Queen City Ex felt the heat.

The temperature in Regina reached a high of 31.6 C and the humidex hit 38 C on the second day of the annual fair. Environment Canada issued a heat warning in the morning and it remained in effect throughout the day.

It’s certainly tough to keep cool on the grounds at Evraz Place, especially for workers at some of the food trucks. Combined with the heat from the grills and other cooking implements, one worker estimated that the temperature reached 55 C.

“I’m trying, man,” said the worker, who drinks six to eight cups of water an hour to stay hydrated. “We rotate out of the stand every 30 minutes just to keep cool.”

Fresh and frozen lemonade also helped keep the workers from being overwhelmed by the heat, as well as the air-conditioned Brandt Centre nearby. It proved to be a popular break from the outdoors.

Other workers weren’t as lucky to have access to ice-cold refreshments. They had to deal with the heat as best they could.

“I’m not (staying cool),” one worker said with a laugh. “I’m just baking.”

Those at the Ex for the festivities also had to make an effort to keep cool. They said the key is sticking to the shade, drinking lots of water and taking in the air conditioning when possible.

There won’t be much relief from the heat Friday, with similar temperatures in the forecast.

Regardless of the heat wave, though, the festivities are to continue. The Queen City Ex is to wrap up Sunday.