Heat warnings are in effect for some parts of British Columbia Monday, with high temperatures expected to last through the week.
In the Fraser Canyon and South Thompson regions, the mercury could climb up to 39 C in some areas, according to Environment Canada. Those regions can expect overnight lows of about 18 C over the next five days, the forecasting agency said.
Meanwhile on B.C.’s north coast, Environment Canada is forecasting heat of up to 29 C, affecting inland regions including Kitimat and Terrace, as well as the central coast.
“Temperatures are very high and there is a moderate risk to public health,” Environment Canada’s warning reads.
It is reminding people to watch for signs of heat illness, including heavy sweating, rash, cramping and fainting.
Those at particular risk include seniors, people who live alone and people with pre-existing health conditions, Environment Canada added.
“Check on family, friends and neighbours, who are at higher risk, particularly if they live alone, to make sure they have a cool space,” the heat warning reads. “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.”
Meanwhile, a special air quality statement has been issued for Metro Vancouver due to smog, and in the Fraser Valley due to wildfire smoke. Environment Canada said the warning is expected to last until at least Tuesday, and is suggesting people in those regions limit outdoor activities.
Heat records shattered provincewide
It was a sweltering weekend across the province, as several communities endured record-breaking heat.
On Saturday, Victoria broke a 100-year-old heat record, reaching a high of 31.1 C.
Daily record high temperatures were recorded on Sunday in Cache Creek, Campbell River, Chetwynd, Clearwater, Clinton, Comox, Creston, Kamloops, Kelowna, Lillooet, Lytton, the Malahat area, Merritt, Princeton, Tatlayoko Lake, Vernon and Whistler.
The hottest spot among those communities was Lytton, where the mercury reached 40.3 C, beating the former record of 38.9 C set in 1958. Lytton also broke its heat record on Saturday, reaching 38.6 C, beating a high set in 1958.
Cache Creek recorded a temperature of 38.2 C on Sunday, beating its record of 35.8 C from just three years ago.