Prolonged heat wave hitting Vancouver and south coast this week
Posted August 13, 2023 9:53 am.
Last Updated August 13, 2023 4:39 pm.
A heatwave across B.C.’s south coast is set to begin Sunday.
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, temperatures during the day are forecasted to reach 33 C away from the water as a strong ridge of high pressure heats the coast.
This includes the Lower Mainland, the Sunshine Coast, the Fraser Canyon and east Vancouver Island.
“Well above seasonal daytime temperatures combined with elevated overnight temperatures will mean little relief from the heat,” the national weather service said in a statement. “However, daytime temperatures will be several degrees cooler near the coast due to breezes from off the water.”
Rising temperatures also increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, so people are advised to watch out for symptoms, including fainting or rashes.
B.C.’s emergency management ministry says the high temperatures are expected to begin over Vancouver Island and southwestern B.C. and may move across the southern Interior through the week.
Temperatures are not expected to return to normal until Friday.
