It’s already hot in the Okanagan. And it’s going to get even hotter.
On Wednesday afternoon, Environment Canada issued a heat warning for the valley, saying temperatures are going to reach 35 to 38 C on Thursday and Friday.
The weather warning, which also includes the Fraser Canyon, noted that overnight lows for the next two days will drop to just 18 C.
“The risks are greater for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses and people working or exercising outdoors,” Environment Canada said of the incoming hot weather.
“Check on older family, friends and neighbours. Make sure they are cool and drinking water.”
For the weekend, the national weather agency is projecting more sunny skies and temperatures dropping into the low 30s.
At 4:30 p.m. PT, Lytton was the nation’s hot spot, with the Fraser Valley community posting a temperature of 37.7 C.
Lytton was also Tuesday’s national hot spot at 32.6 C.
In the wake of Environment Canada’s weather warning, Interior Health issued a reminder that elevated temperatures increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.
The health agency says those who are at highest risk include:
- Older adults, especially those over 60
- People who live alone
- People with pre-existing health conditions
- People with mental illnesses
- People with substance use disorders
- People with limited mobility and other disabilities
- People who are marginally housed
- People who work in hot environments
- People who are pregnant
- Infants and young children
Interior Health says people should stay hydrated, to take it easy during the hottest hours of the day and to stay in the shade and wear sunscreen of SPF30 or more.
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