As the weekend approaches so does a long stretch of hot weather.
Environment Canada issued a special weather statement Thursday (July 4) regarding the heat forecast in Western B.C., cautioning people in Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley to prepare for a long stretch of sunny, warm weather with above-average temperatures.
The federal agency isn't sure how long the heat will stay.
"[There's] a great deal of uncertainty about how long this hot stretch will persist, and it is possible that heat warnings may be required," reads the statement.
Temperatures are expected to be well above seasonal norms. In Vancouver, normal highs for the beginning of July sit around 21 C; for the foreseable future temperatures in the city will sit in the high 20s to low 30s depending on the location.
Weatherhood's forecast predicts a high of 33 C from Sunday to Tuesday in South Vancouver neighbourhoods; further east, in Fraser Valley cities like Chilliwack, temperatures could crack 34 C.
"Daytime high temperatures will reach into the upper 20's to low 30's, and overnight lows in the mid to upper teens," reads the statement.
The signs of heat illness include heavy sweating, rashes, cramps, fainting, high body temperatures, and the worsening of previous health conditions, adds the agency.
They suggest seeking cool places in such circumstances, including shade, air conditioning or places you can submerge in cool water (like a pool or bath).
"Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle," reads the statement.
Heat warning issued for parts of B.C.
Meanwhile, a full heat warning has been issued for some western regions of B.C. Environment Canada is alerting people in the North Coast, Central Coast and Eastern Vancouver Island areas that temperatures will be elevated to the point of posing a risk to public health. That includes cities like Nanaimo, Bella Coola, Kitimat and Terrace.
"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," reads the warning.
