A heat warning is in effect for much of B.C.’s South Coast, as a prolonged heat wave is expected this coming week.
In an alert posted early Saturday, Environment and Climate Change Canada said daytime temperatures are expected to reach 32 C inland, with overnight lows of around 17 C.
The alert affects East Vancouver Island from Duncan to Campbell River, Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, Howe Sound and the Sunshine Coast.
Temperatures in Greater Victoria are expected to be slightly lower, with the forecast calling for highs of 29 to 30 C.
Island Health is encouraging people to shut windows, close curtains and blinds during the day to prevent hotter outdoor air from entering homes as sustained indoor temperatures over 31 C can be dangerous to those susceptible to heat.
“Consider places in your community to spend time indoors such as libraries, community centres, movie theatres or malls,” said a statement from Island Health. “As temperatures may be hotter inside than outside, consider outdoor spaces with lots of shade and running water.”
Environment Canada says temperatures well above seasonal combined with elevated overnight temperatures will mean little relief from the heat.
However, meteorologists say daytime temperatures will be several degrees cooler near the coast thanks to a breeze off the water.
Temperatures are expected to return to normal on Friday.
The agency warns that extreme heat can affect everyone, and to watch for signs of heat illness. Those can include swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of some health conditions.
Following the warning Saturday, the B.C. government issued a statement asking residents to be prepared for the heat.
The province will reimburse eligible costs to First Nations and local governments so they can open cooling centres, including transportation for vulnerable citizens to and from the cooling centres.
While the heat is not forecast to be as severe as during the 2021 heat dome, high temperatures are associated with higher risk of heat-related illness, especially over a prolonged period.
Those most at risk are older adults, especially if they live alone, and people with health conditions, such as mental illness, substance-use disorder, physical disabilities, cognitive impairment, respiratory disease, heart disease, kidney disease and diabetes.
— With a file from the Times Colonist
