Those on the east coast of the Island are being warned to brace for high temperatures beginning Friday and continuing to early next week.
Environment Canada has issued heat warnings for the east coast from Duncan to Campbell River due to a building ridge of high pressure over the region.
Daytime highs are expected in the low 30s C with evening lows around 16 C. More seasonal temperatures are expected to return early next week.
Environment Canada is forecasting a high of 32 C in Nanaimo and Duncan on Friday. In Campbell River, a high of 29 C is expected Friday and up to 31 C over the weekend, and in Port Alberni, temperatures could reach 34 C over the weekend.
Temperatures in Victoria are expected to be in the high 20s, up to 29 C on Monday.
The heat warning brings a moderate risk to public health, Environment Canada says.
People are being warned to watch for the effects of heat illness, including heavy sweating, rash, cramps, fainting, high body temperature and the worsening of some health conditions.
To avoid overheating, Environment Canada recommends seeking cool places such as a tree-shaded area, splash pad, misting station, or air-conditioned building.
It says children, pets and vulnerable people should never be left inside a parked vehicle.
Island Health also issued recommendations, including closing windows, curtains and blinds during the day to block out the sun and prevent hotter outdoor air coming inside. Opening windows and doors while it’s cooler outside can help cool down indoor spaces.
Sustained indoor temperatures over 31 C can be dangerous for people who are particularly susceptible to heat, the health authority says.
Those who are more vulnerable to heat include older adults, infants and young children, pregnant people, those who live alone or have mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, depression or anxiety, those with diabetes, heart disease, respiratory disease or substance-use disorders and people who are unhoused.
Ensure air conditioning is in good order, and if you don’t have air conditioning and your home becomes very hot, consider staying with a friend or relative who does have air conditioning, Island Health says.
The District of Saanich is advising against cooking indoors and doing laundry during the hottest part of the day.
