A heat warning has been issued for parts of Vancouver Island as temperatures are expected to hit the 30-degree mark this week.
Environment Canada has put warnings in place for most of B.C., including Greater Victoria and inland and eastern Vancouver Island, as a “strong ridge of high pressure” is expected to bring a heat wave to the province.
The forecaster says to expect daytime high temperatures of 31 to 35 C inland and 25 to 29 C near the water.
Wednesday to Friday are forecast to be the hottest days, with a “slow cooling trend” expected next weekend, it says. The late afternoon to the early evening will be the hottest part of the day, while the coolest time of day will be near sunrise.
Extreme heat affects everyone, Environment Canada says, but the risks are greater for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses and people working or exercising outdoors.
Signs of heat illness include swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of some health conditions.
Remember to stay hydrated during the heat wave and to avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day. You can also take a cold bath or shower to cool down.
Check HealthLinkBC online resources about heat-related illnesses and how to protect yourself. Call HealthLinkBC at 811 to ask about heat-related illness.
