ECCC issues Heat Warning for eastern Vancouver Island

As a heatwave begins to make its way across B.C., Environment and Climate Change Canada issued its first Heat Warning Thursday.

The warning covers much of eastern Vancouver Island, from Sayward in the north to Malahat in the south.

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“A building ridge of high pressure over the region will begin to usher in very high temperatures beginning Friday. Temperatures for daytime highs will be in the low 30’s with evening lows near 16 degrees. Early next week the temperatures are expected to moderate but the timing is currently uncertain,” ECCC said in the warning.

The weather service says people in the area should watch for the effects of heat illnesses, such as “heavy sweating, rash, cramps, fainting, high body temperature and the worsening of some health conditions.”

“Never leave susceptible people, particularly children, or pets inside a parked vehicle,” ECCC explained. “If you are in an overheated area, seek a cool place such as a tree-shaded area, splash pad, misting station, or air-conditioned spot like a public building.”

CityNews Meteorologist Michael Kuss believes the peak of the heat will come this weekend, when the daily highs will top 30°C for most of the Lower Mainland.

“With some humidity, it could feel close to 35,” Kuss shared. “Even with an afternoon sea breeze, it will still be up near 27 right by the water.

“This is a long dry stretch, there’s no rain in the forecast for at least the next 10 days.”

Kuss says for folks who are heading out of the Lower Mainland, you’ll be seeing even warmer temperatures this week.

“Highs hit 30°C in the Okanagan Thursday, mid-30s Saturday with no sign of significant cooling through at least the end of next week,” he explained.

“[It’ll be] dry and hot in Prince George and the Central Interior as well. Heat comes a little later but will last well into next week. Highs climbing to 30°C on Sunday and as hot as 35°C by early next week.”

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