It’s going to be a hot, hot weekend. Dangerously hot.
A dangerous long duration heat wave will affect B.C. beginning on Friday and lasting until Tuesday. Daytime highs ranging from 29 to 36 degrees Celsius combined with overnight lows of 14 to 16 degrees Celsius can be expected throughout much of British Columbia, including Prince George, the Cariboo-Chilcotin, Yellowhead, Williston, Bulkley Valley, Lakes District, McGregor, B.C. Peace River, Fort Nelson.
Environment Canada says an exceptionally strong ridge of high pressure will develop over British Columbia likely resulting in record-breaking temperatures. The duration of this heat wave is concerning as there is little relief at night with elevated overnight temperatures. This record-breaking heat event will increase the potential for heat-related illnesses, raise river levels due to glacier melt and increase the risk of wildfires due to drought conditions.
Drink plenty of water even before you feel thirsty and stay in a cool place.
Check on older family, friends and neighbours. Make sure they are cool and drinking water
Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle.
Watch for the symptoms of heat illness: dizziness/fainting; nausea/vomiting; rapid breathing and heartbeat; extreme thirst; decreased urination with unusually dark urine.
Outdoor workers should take regularly scheduled breaks in a cool place.
To get more information:
– Check the local news for health and safety updates.
– Check HealthLinkBC online resources about heat-related illness and how to protect yourself at www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthlinkbc-files/heat-related-illness.
– Call HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1 to ask about heat-related illness.
Environment Canada and local Medical Health Officers expect an increase in health and safety risks from heat and are advising the public to take precautions.