With the hottest day of the week upon us, cities across B.C. have the potential to break maximum temperature records.
Environment Canada is warning temperatures could be over 40 C in some areas this Thursday.
“A ridge of high pressure has brought unseasonably hot weather into southern B.C.,” writes Environment Canada.
“Daytime maximum temperatures will climb a couple more degrees today and reach 37 C at many localities with a few spots crossing the 40 C mark. Overnight minimum temperatures will only recover to the upper teens to 20 C mark.”
Meteorologists warn that it will remain hot on Friday as daytime highs remain in the mid to upper 30Cs.
Related: No B.C. region left untouched with 462 wildfires burning
“Significant cooling will occur on Saturday as a cold front moves through the area overnight Friday,” adds Environment Canada.
“Watch for the effects of heat illness: swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of some health conditions. Drink plenty of water even before you feel thirsty and stay in a cool place.”
Experts also recommend checking in on older family, friends and neighbours. Make sure they are cool and drinking water
Also seek a cool place such as a tree-shaded area, swimming pool, shower or bath, or air-conditioned spot like a public building.
Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle.
Related: Tips to protect yourself under smoky skies
Related: Get ready for 40 C weather in the Southern Interior
While today is set to be the hottest day this week, yesterday’s scorching temperatures broke seven records in the province;
Cache Creek Area
- New record: 38.8 C
- Old record: 37.5 C set in 1981
- Records kept since 1912
Lillooet
- Tied record: 39 C
- Old record: 39 C set in 1981
- Records kept since 1881
Lytton
- New record: 40.6 C
- Old record: 40.4 C set in 1981
- Records kept since 1921
Malahat
- New record: 31.5 C
- Old record: 30.5 C set in 1987
- Records kept since 1986
Merritt
- New record: 36.3 C
- Old record: 35.0 C set in 1978
- Records kept since 1918
Pemberton
- New record: 38.7 C
- Old record: 37.0 C set in 1981
- Records kept since 1908
Squamish
- New record: 33.2 C
- Old record: 32.2 C set in 1960
- Records kept since 1960
DYK: our HEAT alerting criteria varies for the different regions across BC? The criteria is based on the 95th percentiles of maximum temperatures for each region. Mortality statistics from @CDCofBC are also part of the equation. FMI: https://t.co/Ptxa9qsQsq #BCwx pic.twitter.com/F6iIHwehTR
— ECCC Weather British Columbia (@ECCCWeatherBC) August 7, 2018
Related: Okanagan store owner spurred into action after seeing infant over-heat
To report a typo, email:newstips@kelownacapnews.com.
@carmenweldcarmen.weld@bpdigital.caLike us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.
