A heat wave has settled over parts of British Columbia with Environment Canada and the provincial government warning of high temperatures stretching into next week.
The weather agency on Friday expanded a series of heat warnings to include the Sunshine Coast and Howe Sound, where daytime highs are forecast to reach 32 C.
The hottest temperatures are expected to start hitting the province Sunday and Monday. Environment Canada had already issued heat warnings for eastern Vancouver Island, where daytime highs are expected to hit the low 30s.
In Greater Victoria, temperatures are expected to hit the high 20s, peaking at 29 C on Monday.
A joint statement from B.C.’s ministries of Health and Emergency Management, as well as the provincial health officer, said Environment Canada was expected to expand warnings to the Interior as the heat spread from west to east.
Health Minister Adrian Dix said vulnerable people, including the elderly, people who live alone, those with mental or chronic illnesses and young people and pregnant people, are at high risk during heat waves. “It’s of course always important to identify cooler space if possible in your home and prepare it,” he said at an unrelated news conference in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside.
“Make sure to shut windows and close curtains or blinds during the heat of the day to block the sun and prevent hotter outdoor air from coming inside, and open doors and windows when it is cooler outside.”
He said in case of heat-related emergencies people should phone 911.
A special weather statement was also in effect for Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, where temperatures are set to reach into the high 20s and low 30s.
The forecast for Kamloops said the temperature is expected to hit 40 C on Monday and Tuesday, followed by 39 C on Wednesday.
In Fort Nelson, highs between 29 C and 32 C are expected from Sunday to next Wednesday.
The entire community was evacuated for just over two weeks this spring due to the threat of an early-season wildfire.
The province’s statement said that for many in B.C., these will be the first high temperatures of the season, and people should take care to monitor their health.
Environment Canada said the heat posed a “moderate” risk to public health.
It encouraged people to watch for signs of heat illness — including heavy sweating, rashes and fainting — and to check in on friends and neighbours who might be at greater risk, especially if they live by themselves.
— With files from the Times Colonist
