A heat wave that has seen scorching temperatures across B.C. is expected to get record-breakingly worse this weekend, triggering a new warning from Environment Canada.
The agency said an “exceptionally strong” building ridge of high pressure could leave parts of the province dangerously warm from Friday until Tuesday.
“The duration of this heat wave is concerning as there is little relief at night with elevated overnight temperatures,” reads the Wednesday (June 23) warning.
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Most of the province, including much of Vancouver Island, the Lower Mainland, the Okanagan and central British Columbia will be affected.
On Saturday, a dome of heat is expected to bubble up and become trapped in B.C.’s Southern Interior.
Daytime temperatures are forecast to reach 38 degrees Celsius in Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, Surrey, Langley, Abbotsford, Chilliwack and Hope.
A heat dome setting up over British Columbia is poised to bring record and dangerous heat to parts of the province this weekend, where only about 40% of residents have air conditioning. #BCheat #BCwx
— The Weather Network (@weathernetwork) June 23, 2021
Hot temperatures are increasing health risks for everyday citizens, who are being advised to drink plenty of fluids and find a cool place to stay.
Authorities are encouraging people to monitor older family members, friends and neighbours for signs of heat illness including dizziness, vomiting, extreme thirst, rapid breathing and heartbeat and decreased or dark urination.
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“Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle,” reads the warning.
The heat is expected to ease Wednesday.
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