Heat warning issued for Metro Vancouver, Fraser Valley: Environment Canada

Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley are officially under a heat warning, Environment Canada announced Saturday afternoon.

The weather service says there is a moderate risk to public health due and the warning will be in effect until the middle of next week.

“A building ridge of high pressure over the region is ushering in very high temperatures beginning Sunday,” Environment Canada said in a news release.

“Daytime high temperatures will be in the low to mid 30’s. Near the water, daytime highs will be in the high 20’s. Overnight lows will be near 17 degrees. The hot temperatures are expected to moderate by the latter half of next week, but the exact timing is currently uncertain.”

The City of Vancouver is reminding residents that cooling centres are now in place.

“Everyone is welcome to cool down and rehydrate at one of these centres and some will allow well behaved pets,” the city said.

“In addition to these air-conditioned facilities, members of the public are welcome to seek shade at any of the City’s other community centres, at weather protected plazas and under trees, umbrellas and awnings at parks and beaches.”

For a complete list of cooling centres and other resources across Metro Vancouver, visit here.

The BCCDC has offered some tips to help residents stay cool during the upcoming heatwave, including:

• drink plenty of water, even if you aren’t thirsty, especially at night
• reduce activity level and avoid intense activity
• wear a damp shawl or shirt
• sit in a cool or tepid bath
• take a cool shower
• use a personal mister or spray bottle

As well, people are advised to watch out for signs of heat stroke, which include severe headache, confusion, unsteadiness, vomiting, and a loss of thirst.