The past few days have been scorchers, but the weather hasn’t quite reached record levels, according to Environment Canada.
The closest the area came to eclipsing a previously held high temperature was Sunday. Meterologist Allan Coldwells said it reached 33 C on July 13, just 0.3 degrees shy of the record, which was set in 1961.
Overall, the heat is above normal for the time of year. Usually Abbotsford averages about 24 C, but the mercury has risen to above 30 for the past number of days, and that trend is expected to continue until later this week.
By Thursday, Coldwells said the forecast indicates a Pacific outflow will bring cooler air into the Fraser Valley, and Environment Canada expects it will hit 27 C, and then 24 C by Friday.
Fraser Health is warning residents that while pleasant, the hot weather poses danger.
Everyone is at risk of heat related illness, but in particular, children, seniors and people with chronic health conditions are more vulnerable. There are a variety of mild to severe symptoms linked with heat-related illness, including thirst, dizziness, confusion, weakness, fainting, collapsing and even death. Medical health officers are reminding residents to take precautions to protect themselves from the heat.
• Stay hydrated: Drink cool beverages regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty.
• Keep cool: Spend at least several hours every day in an air-conditioned facility (such as a shopping centre, library, community centre or restaurant).
• Use public splash pools, water parks or pools, or take a cool bath or shower.
• Dress for the weather by wearing loose, light-weight clothing. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
•Check in on others: People living alone are at high risk of severe heat related illness. Check regularly on older people, those who are unable to leave their homes and anyone who may not be spending at least several hours every day in air conditioned places for signs of heat-related illness.
