'Risk to public health': Extended heat warnings issued for parts of B.C. | Daily Hive

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If you’re planning a getaway around B.C. this week, be aware that heat warnings are up in many regions, with a “period of elevated temperatures” expected to last for several days.

While wildfire smoke is impacting Metro Vancouver and several parts of the province, other areas are being warned of high temperatures that are a “risk to public health.”

According to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), over a dozen yellow heat warnings are in place throughout B.C., and the public is urged to use caution.

Temperatures are expected to reach mid-to-high 30s in several parts of the province, combined with overnight lows in the mid-to-high teens.

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“A ridge of high pressure will bring elevated temperatures to the region,” said ECCC in its warning posted online. “High temperatures may persist until Thursday, followed by a cooling trend.”

EmergencyInfoBC, operated by the Government of B.C.’s Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, listed the 18 regions currently under active heat warnings:

Central Okanagan – including Kelowna
North Okanagan – including Vernon
South Okanagan – including Penticton
South Thompson
Boundary
Central Coast – inland sections
North Coast – inland including Terrace
North Coast – inland including Kitimat
Shuswap
West Kootenay
Howe Sound
Whistler
Sunshine Coast
Fraser Valley – central including Chilliwack
Fraser Valley – east including Hope
Fraser Valley – west including Abbotsford
Fraser Canyon – north including Lillooet
Fraser Canyon – south including Lytton

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During heat warnings, ECCC reminds people to check on their vulnerable friends, family, and neighbours who are at higher risk during hot weather.

There are some early signs of heat illness to look out for:

Feeling unwell
Fatigue
Thirst
Headache
Unusually dark urine

If you are experiencing any of these issues, you’re encouraged to move to a cooler environment, such as a shaded or air-conditioned space.

EmergencyInfoBC also urged British Columbians to drink plenty of water, take precautions to stay cool, and call 911 or their local emergency number in case of a medical emergency.

Closer to home, temperatures in Metro Vancouver could feel up to 35°C inland on Tuesday, with a UV index of 8, or very high.

Midweek temperatures could reach up to 31°C inland on Wednesday and 28°C on Thursday before cooler temperatures return right before the weekend.