Mission went through its hottest heat wave in July in four years late last week.
According to reports from the Westminster Abbey, which records weather values, in 2010, temperatures reached averaged 29 C in the first week of July. Since last Wednesday, Mission’s average temperature has been 31 C, with Saturday and Sunday both notching 31.5 C.
Further temperatures of 28.5, 30, 29 and 29 hit the community from July 12 to July 9, said Frater Andrew, who takes weather readings daily at the Abbey.
Environment Canada does not have an official weather station in Mission. The closest is in Abbotsford.
The forecast for the rest of the week predicts 33 C on Tuesday, followed by daily drops in temperature until a low of 26 C for Saturday and Sunday.
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.
