Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for Golden, as a dangerous and long heat wave is expected to roll through B.C. starting this Saturday, and lasting until Wednesday.
Daytime highs are expected to range from25 to 40 degress celsuis, combined with overnight lows of 20 to 22 degress celsius.
If temperatures reach their project highs, Golden will be looking at breaking an almost 100 year old heat record, when temperatuers hit 33-35 degrees from June 26 to June 27 in 1925.
Daily highs are forecasted in Golden over the next week to land somewhere between 32 degress celsius and 36 degress celsius.
Across the province, records are dropping as temperautres sore due to an exceptionall strong ridge of high pressure which has developped over British Columbia.
Environment canada says that 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 and increase the risk of wildfires due to drought conditions.
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.
Dr. Emily Newhouse, medical health officer for Fraser Health, encouraged people to self-monitor for heat-related illness, as well as check on family, friends and neighbours.
Symptoms can include dizziness and fainting, nausea and vomiting, rapid breathing and heartbeat, or extreme thirst, she said.
Watch out for red flags such as symptoms that aren’t improving with self-care, very hot and dry skin, loss of consciousness or confusion, she said.
To cool down, Newhouse suggested a cold shower, cold washcloth, misting cool water, closing blinds, going to another location that has air conditioning, hitting a swimming pool or finding shade.
HealthLinkBC is providing online resources about heat-related illness and how to protect yourself. You can call HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1 to ask about heat related illness.
~with files from the Canadian Press
